Flo Voy, welcome to the diet forum. There's nothing to do to join in. Just post in as much as you want and enjoy our encouragement. A half a pound a week is not unrealistic. Ask questions and tell us what you've accomplished.

Dieting is about making yourself feel better and achieving all around better health. It should even help lift your spirits.

I walk about seven miles a day. I see that you live in a nice warm climate so take a 30 minute walk every day. Start cutting down on the portion size you normally eat. Always remember, do what works best for you. What may work for one of us doesn't always work for all of us. Don't be obsessed with getting on the scale every day. Wait about a month after you first start and then get on the scale.

Good luck, get started and post with us, we're here for you!