Sorry about the delay - I think a lot of us are still getting back into our post-holiday routine (I know I am...)
Whew! You DO have a big goal to attain! I'm sure that someone else will chime in here. I haven't seen the M&F Hers issue you're referring to, but my first advice would be NOT to take on too much too soon - you'll end up VERY sore and miserable to say the least (you might want to start supplementing with glutamine powder to stave off the soreness).
I'm not sure if you've ever done weight training before...if you have just TAKE IT EASY at first. Don't just rely on the magazine for info...(obviously you're not, since you're asking here
). I'd suggest checking out our forum "Basic Info" sticky - lots of great links there - the best one (IMO) being
Krista Scott Dixon's Weight Training for Women (Stumptous) website for LOTS of great beginner info.
To become stronger in pushups - my experience is you just keep doing them as part of your chest workout. As you get stronger and lose weight, pushups will become easier for you.
As far as running - just keep doing it! Cardio (along with nutrition) is ESSENTIAL for burning fat - weight training helps a bit but diet is probably 80% of it. Sounds like you need to build up some stamina - I'd recommend doing HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) on the treadmill (if you belong to a gym or have access to a treadmill) or outside.
Don't be a stranger! keep on posting and let us know your progress and if you have any questions.