My Weight Loss Journey: The first 12 weeks!

I've completed my first round in my weight loss journey!  I've lost 12 pounds in 12 weeks (4.74% of my body weight), and I really couldn't be happier.  :) 

People keep asking me what I'm doing to lose weight and it's really quite simple.  I'm just eating better (not FABULOUS or anything, but a lot better than I have been) ... no fast food, only 1-2 sodas (diet) a day.  I mainly drink water now.  No snacking throughout the day, or if I do have a snack it's something low calorie.  My biggest issue right now is eating at night.  I tend to have a snack or two (low cal, but still ...) after the kids are in bed and I know that's not good, but it's soooo hard to break that habit.  And, my biggest thing I'm doing right now is exercising.  I'm not a big believer in fad diets or the like ... for me, the only real way to lose weight is to stay active.  I'm doing 45 minutes of cardio 4 days a week and burning around 450 calories each time. 

Here's my comparison pictures .. I hope you all can tell a difference.  I certainly can, and it REALLY shows in my clothing.  I have GOT to buy some new pants ASAP!