Yeah, unfortunately, calories do count! I, like you, am looking to lose about 20 pounds, and I do need to watch my calories. I've upped my carbs to 25-30g per day, though, because it's easier to keep calories low when I can have more spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. Once I am on maintenance, I am confident that I won't need to monitor so closely, as 1800-2000 cals per day feels just right for me. Right now, I am keeping it to 1500-1600, and that's for a very active day.