I have been dieting since June 14th and have lost 21 pounds. DH is also dieting and has lost 30 pounds! (MEN! ARGH!) We have been doing it by just avoiding carbs and exercising. I eat about 20-30 carbs a day. It can be a pain because you are constantly label watching, but we have yielded great results. I am alreadt down a full size in my jeans and 2 skirt sizes!!
Good luck! The key is to just stick to it, even if you have a bad day one day, just get right back on the horse the next day.
The W.I.S.H board here is great - you should definitely check it out!