I'm starting my quest this week, as well. After waiting for a month for the bike I ordered... I am starting a new endeavor after a recent knee injury. My goal is to drop at least 40 lbs by the end of summer... 75 lbs by the end of the year. I think it's awesome that a lot of people are aiming to get into better shape.
I've had to watch my father go through some bad health issues... and well, he was as healthy as a horse. He's not overweight, never sick (with the exception of a minor cold once a year), and in good shape. The doctors still don't know why his heart became enlarged. I've used this as encouragement to get myself into shape... As I am headed down the same path as he is, regarding our line of work and work schedules. It's hell on the body.