Re: Weight loss
I did a 'lifestyle change' last year (no one 'diets' anymore!) and I can tell you what worked for me.
First of all, I exercised every single day, walking one hour on the treadmill without fail.
Secondly, my diet was the Atkins diet. But after about two months, I began to find it too restrictive. I modified the diet to eliminate all sugary items like cookies, sodas and cakes. I also drastically reduced carbohydrate based foods like pasta, rice and potatoes.
I always started my meal with a soup or salad and then ate whatever was cooked for the family. This way, I automatically ate less than I normally would because my stomach was partially full from the starter.
I am game to join you if you have some challenge or rules you want to provide.