MFP recommendations for a newbie??

Hi! I'm a 30 year old female looking to lose 40 pounds. Over the past few years, my husband and I have hit some hurdles and I seem to slowly eat my troubles away! Not an effective way to cope I know but now I'm much heavier than I want and it's time to do something about it! I have hashimoto's disease, so I know that losing weight will be extra challenging for me, but I want to use this program to its fullest and am hoping some seasoned veterans can make some recommendations. Are there groups that you have found especially supportive and motivating? Blogs that are good to follow? A great place to look up new recipes? I'm not sure where to begin and would really appreciate your advice. Thanks! :smile: