newbie in Bellevue WA

I often exercise in the morning because I too lack energy sometimes after work. Maybe you could try going to bed early and getting up a little earlier to exercise? Also, regarding cooking healthy -- a big part of it is just making the healthy choices as easy as unhealthy choices are. Instead of having bags of chips or other high calories items around the house for snacks, get an airpopper for popcorn, or buy low-calorie preportioned items. For meals, I often use the Green Giant Simply Steam vegetables. They are very low-calories and delicious (they often come in a sauce). About 4 minutes in the microwave and you've got a good meal/appetizer/side. Keep your cupboards stocked with the good stuff and keep the unhealthy stuff out of the house. I think the most important thing is to realize losing weight is a longterm process. I've lost about 45 pounds so far (my lifetime goal is about 100 pounds from my highest weight), but it took me a good year and a half to get this far. Some people lose quickly and some people lose more slowly, but regardless, a good attitude is key to longterm success. Just keep making healthy choices, one day at a time!