hi-i'm new

Hi! - I came across this site and it looks great. I turned 50 (F) this year and realized I want and/or need to get a little more serious about my health. I have started the middle age weight gain/muscle decline and I need to lose about 25 pounds. I joined the local gym and have been doing 35-45 minutes on elliptical in "fat burn" mode about 3-4 x's per week along with 10 - 15 minutes on the weight machines. Only started about 2 weeks ago. I've never been able to work up a good sweat (even when running track in high school) but I am concerned I'm not doing the appropriate level on the elliptical. I get my heart rate up to the 140's and try to keep it there for the duration of my workout. Should I be doing something stronger and/or different? I've only lost 1/2 pound in two weeks and am following a 1200 - 1400 calorie diet. Guess I'm just worried I'm not getting the most bang for my buck on the elliptical. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!