Originally Posted by lil brown bat
I'll close with one final thought for OP: understood that you want to maximize your fat loss, but also keep in mind that you didn't put the weight on in a few months, and you won't take it off in a few months. Commit yourself to the long haul, and you'll do fine.
Understood. Right now I'd be happy with a a consistent and permanent 5 pounds per month. I think this is both a reasonable and healthy rate. Of course this probably won't happen as much as I continue to lift, but for me right now, just having my clothes fit noticeably better by the end of the year would be great.
And thanks again everyone for the input. This is really a great resource, and an inspiration to me personally to see people "like me" who are SUCCEEDING at managing their weight.