First and foremost, you rock.
Second. Be careful with the "cutting out everything". The harder we try, the more severe and strict we are, sometimes, the easier it is to slide.
I believe this. Different diets work for different people, different metabolisms. Only you can figure out that magic mix of diet and exercise (and regardless of what diet actually works ALL need exercise).
Be smart. Take notes. Figure out what, when actually makes a difference.
Little things are HUGE. Soda. Butter. The type of salad dressing..
Cutting out everything though, isn't realistic, long term. Modifying, being cognizant, is.
You are a truly amazing, inspirational person and if 30 is your goal, I have no doubt, you can achieve it.
Pounds are not what matters. how you feel, how your clothes fit, what your true health is, does. Ignore the scale. Ignore the measuring tape. You will know, by how things fit, if you are being successful. More focus than that, only detracts. Balance this, with life.
Sorry for the diatribe but...it's heady, the first big loss. And I know you know that.