Well . . . a couple of things
. . . first of all you have to understand that I am old enough to be your grandmother (and that does make a lot of difference in the weight loss game -- you are so wise to get rid of the excess while you are young and before a few pounds becomes a lot of pounds)
. . . secondly, I'm a diabetic and that makes a difference too, unfortunately.
SOOOO . . . basically I follow the Canadian Diabetes Association exchange system; which is a lot like any other exchange system diet you'll ever bump into; plus, I stir in the principles of Volumetrics because I have to feel full. Volumetrics just uses the principle of adding lots and lots of veggies to just about anything (almost any broth based soup os a great thing) so you get lots of food for as few calories as possible.
Anyway . . . take a look at the General Diet Plans area for lots and lots of possibilities . . . 3FC doesn't push any one plan over another . . . the only thing we insist upon is that the plan you follow be as healthy as possible. Thre is also an exercise forum you should take a look at with lots of reviews about the more popular machines and DVD routines.
Have a great time looking around -- I know you'll get lots of helpful ideas. Hope to see you later. . .