Hey Erin, welcome!! I think everyone will agree that two of some of the top 'rules' of losing weight are you must drink plenty of water and get plenty of exercise. Weight loss is pretty difficult without either of them. Also like Renee I'm on a low-carb diet (emphasis on trying... another rule, don't get too upset if you cheat once in a while =D) and I'm counting callories too. Good luck on your goals!! Hope I can help you sometime.