I'm new to this group and the lifestyle :)

Hi, my name is Melissa and I am trying to go completely meat, dairy and egg free. I started this diet about two weeks ago and I feel great about myself! I have tried going vegetarian before but I didn't make it so this time I'm hoping to get the support I need through groups in order to stay on track! The hardest part that I have found about going vegan is that my boyfriend is not vegan and we eat together. I have been trying to find recipes that even he will like that don't have any meats in them, plus they must be low in cholesterol because he has high cholesterol in his family. I also am counting calories and am trying for 1200 a day. I have found this a bit difficult because I'm also trying to incorporate lots of protein into my diet which does contain 4 Cals per gram. When you add a lot of protein the calories skyrockets. Things like chick peas and nuts are loaded with calories from the protein. I have been trying to find fun, interesting, low calorie, heart healthy, vitamin rich foods that don't feel like they are missing something for my boyfriend...... not the easiest thing in the world. Any help with this would be awesome!

Thanks!

Melissa