Congratulations on making the first step to losing weight! I too had decided (after many years of trying in vein) late last year to do something about the weight I have gained and let me tell you - it was much easier that I thought!

I too keep a food diary (online via Calorie King) and am seeing a personal trainer twice a week and have just starting doing mini (30 min) workouts at home when I can.
One thing my trainer said to me is this is a 'life' choice, not just to lose weight choice - to keep it off for life you have to do it for life! - good tip I thought.

I have also been watching the biggest loser and that is motivating!

Well done again!