had a long hiatus from working out, so dropped protein intake in the form of shakes completely. Now I'm getting back into working out and I don't think I will return to it

What exactly is the benefit of that extra protein? A 2% increase in muscle mass? And tell me why that matters?
I'm glad I had the lifting hiatus cuz it put some things into perspective... I've cut my lifting time down to half, and included more cardio. Unless it REALLY REALLY is your hobby to have a muscular physique, I see NO other reason other than competitive bodybuilding for putting that much time into this activity. It's not going to get your more girls... and you're not going to compete. So why try to get bigger? If its not vanity or a waste of time, then what is it?