Hi, Crimson! Yes, it is hard to do Atkins when others in your household are not. I am a mom of 2, and now that my DH is doing Atkins with me, it is easier. I know what you mean about the grocery bill. In the beginning, I made two separate meals, one for me, one for them. Well, that was crazy. Now I make something we can all eat. I don't know what your family situation is, but if you are the one doing the cooking, you should call the shots. I have noticed my grocery bill going down, because I used to always buy convenience foods, and pre-made entrees. I still buy some "goodies" for the kids, but I am cutting down on that, also. They need to eat better, too. It seems sometimes that it is cheaper to eat the other way, I mean a box of pasta is so cheap, so is a loaf of bread, but in the long run, this way is better. It's healthier, and you will probably save money on medical bills in the long run. I know myself that I will save money on clothing, when I no longer have to keep buying different sizes!!

I agree about the recipes - there are hundreds of them on the net, just go to google and do a search for low carb recipes. I made "mock mashed potatoes" yesterday with cauliflower, and they were awesome! Even my picky seven year old ate them. I also got three pounds of chicken thighs for three bucks. I baked them, then cut up the meat for chicken salad. I had enough for lunch for a week. It is versatile, every day I added something different, and it tasted different every time.

You can do this!!! Good Luck!!

-Jess

ps

don't worry about not being able to afford the Atkins shakes, you are not missing much, they taste pretty bad!!