The change of going to the gym w/ your partner!

My wife and I have been going to the gym with simple goals; 10 pounds in 6 weeks and 20 pounds in 12 weeks. We did not set to high of goals due to the fact, we have never really do anything for ourselves...it has been for others. We have now put our focus on "US"! Our health and happiness is on us and only us!
Changing the way we eat and look at food..it is not something you stuff in your face in front of the TV a couple times a day. Eating RAW is something you need to take your time and plan out so not only is it good but good for you. I first learned of this site from watching a show that turned me on G. Brick and her use of RAW foods. I now know that finding her and learning about her was the best thing I ever did!!
I know it is not something you can do "half-ass", or as a fad. It must become a way of life and a lifestyle. I have been a chef for 20 plus years (Okay; in the beginning I was a crappy cook!! LOL!), we moved after my wife finished her schooling to a new state (MN) and for 10 months I have not been working. I had time to look at our life and the ways were eating, and knew we needed to change.
The first thing we did was cut out things....soda was the first to go! Then we looked at the way we were cooking things....my biggest friend while cooking was B...U...T...T...E...R!! I was channeling Paula Dean; in the worsed way. My wife always laughs when she sees Ms. Dean, it is my mom 100%. So butter was something I grew up with, in EVERYTHING! Just making grits I was using 2 tablespoons per bowl plus loads of sugar.
Since doing just these few changes; I have lost 13.5 pounds in 5 weeks and my wife has lost 10 pounds. I am now looking to make a full lifestyle change; but it take planning and a commiment. I am going to look to go more RAW, cut down on red meat and go towords more clean proteins.
I am looking for any input from anyone who is also making these changes or has changed. I know from the cooking world that the more viewpoints makes a better dish...so lets get cooking!!
Blessings to all~

Jeffrey