New to all of this...

I have tried myfitnesspal before with little success. I find tracking everything I eat daunting however, I have never taken the time to read any posts and frankly, I find many of the stories very encouraging and touching.
I was required by a college course to create an account so I am making a commitment to myself to stick with it through the semester.
I am in my mid-thirties and carrying around a second-grader worth of excess weight. I would love to feel attractive again as I am sick of hearing that I have a pretty face and great personality. While those are very sweet compliments what I see in the mirror makes me very unhappy so I am trying to make better food choices and exercise more. I am also trying to be realistic and not overwhelm myself with a complete lifestyle change in a day.