Some random thoughts -

I know someone who had great success with Weight Watchers. He joined with his wife a few months before their wedding and they both lost weight. After a while he did admit that he got tired of counting points, but through the point system he became more aware of what foods were better to eat than others and what kinds of portions were right for him. Then he switched jobs and started commuting by bike and lost even more weight.

I lost 25 lbs a few years back by getting back to a regular exercise routine, so that it became such a habit that I felt weird if I didn't go to the gym or go for a walk or bike ride. I do weight training twice a week and cardio 2-3 days a week. For cardio I like to vary my routine - bike rides and long walks outside when the weather is good, and when it's not I walk on the treadmill, ride a stationary bike, use an elliptical machine, etc. The important thing is to fine a couple of activities that you like so that it's not a chore.

Also I cut way back on fried foods (which are my big weakness - I don't have a sweet tooth, I have a fried tooth). I still allow myself to have the bad foods that I like, but I limit them, e.g., french fries are allowed only twice a month max. I've read that it's better to allow yourself a treat periodically rather than completely forbidding certain foods because if you try to cut your favorites out completely you wind up bingeing (sp?) on them.

Also I've watched that guy Dr. Oz on TV a few times and he seems to make sense in terms of his advice on eating better and getting exercise into your life. I've never read his books but it might be worthwhile to hit a bookstore and check them out.

http://www.realage.com/ct/the-you-do...t/cbr/YDGGLE18

The Washington Post health section has some columns and weekly web chats on healthy eating and exercise - the Lean Plate Club and the Misfits. The web chats are good for specific advice and for support. (Website registration is required for washingtonpost.com but it's free and it's just looking for some demographic info - you can make stuff up if you want.)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv...lpc/index.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...050201281.html

Overall I think the most important thing is to focus on lifestyle changes that you can maintain over the long term. Meaning gradual changes to eat healthier foods and increase your activity level. And it's better to lose weight slowly and gradually than to go on an extreme diet that you won't be able to stick to.

Whatever you do, keep us posted. And good luck!