First of all
I just wanted to say that I was in EXACTLY your position when I decided it was time to change. I went to Europe to study abroad for three months and gained atleast ten pounds while I was there, taking me past 145 on the scales. eeeek.
I too am pear shaped, I gained all my weight in my thighs and I just looked completely awkward!
I started making changes in January by "watching what I eat" and then that didn't make a big difference so I started calorie counting a few months ago.. I've lost atleast 18 pounds so far (10 since I started journaling in June) and now I'm lighter and in much better shape than I ever remember being. Looking back it on my old eating habits, it kind of grosses me out what I used to have! And even though my metabolism liked me then.. it was bound to catch up to me at one point. Now I eat verrrry healthy, work out and I love it!
I wish you luck on your weight loss journey! Don't be afraid to ask questions, rant, or anything!