Hey JAmes,
good luck on your venture.
I too just started working out recently...my goal is 35 pounds - lost 2 so far
Anyway, I was wondering why such a time limit on it? I mean, it took me 5-6 years to gain all the extra weight, so I'm not planning on losing it even within a year (although the trainers at my gym say I could reach my goal by September - I doubt it)
I'm still eating trash too - trying to be a bit more careful though (actually only had fast food once last week - which is good since i live a block from Mickey D's and smell it all the time!)
Well, keep working at it, and have faith!