hi lucy and welcome
the question isn't how many cals, but are you feeling hungry after eating? A lot of people feel like they have to eat more volume at first. I did. It amazed me how much I was eating to get full. But now it's more normal looking plates of food.
calories do matter, when you're trying to lose weight. Your intake must be less than the output. But I wouldn't worry about the calorie count. If you are eating until you are satisfied, and it comes to 1200-1800 cals a day, you'll lose weight for sure. and be healthier, for sure. I haven't done a calorie count, but the last time I mentally calculated, I'm probably getting on the low end of the cals you mention...around 1200-1400 a day? I guess. I've lost 20 lbs in three months then stalled due to not being able to exercise...
But I'm betting that you will be thrilled at the other benefits, so the scale and calorie amounts don't mean nearly as much to you as the end of indigestion, the beginning of amazing energy, the cure of depression, the focused, calm, stability of your emotions...it feels REALLY good, even if the scale doesn't budge.
have fun! click around these forums.
good group of people.