On the aspect of shakes... I drink about 3 50gram protein shakes a day, just so I can get an easy 150 grams in, then usually eat a high carb/low protein breakfast (1/4 cup Capn Crunch PB & 3/4 Cup Fiber one), then primarily a piece of fruit with each shake, apple or banana, and alot of meet at night (with almost no carbs). So I take in about 215-230 grams protein a day, about 130-180 grams carbs a day, with lot fats, and I have noticed some signifigant strength gains, as well as about a 7lb gain, got a little fat over Xmas, but Im working it off as we speak.
so I like protein shakes as they are easy and effective way of getting a large amount of protein in b/t classes for me and right after lifting, as I live a pretty hectic schedule.