Well I recently lost about 15 pounds in just about three months. I'm like you, love food, love to cook etc...........I was a size 8 when I started and am down to a loose size 6. I had been a size 8 for 10 years which means I had some pretty good maintance habits but still knew for my heighth dropping 20 would be ok. So I absolutely, with the help of a friend at the time, got dedicated to loosing the weight finally. I started writing down what I ate and kept to a strict 1100 cals a day but of GOOD food so I felt full, like veggies, fruit, grains and did not feel hungry. I never cut out even one food, I don't believe in that either. On the weekends I allowed myself one day of indulgence which is usually pizza! And I started going to a trail over here and walk/jogging three miles EVERY day. That was the key. And on the days I hated it, I just said I HAD to do it to reach my goal.
My hang up in the past was always making excuses for not just doing what I had to do. This time I was absolutely dedicated and the weight has just come off. I've been so happy to have to buy a whole new summer wordrobe including buying a red bikini that I plan on wearing to the beach this summer! I haven't warn a bikini since I was a kid! So if your really serious, it's about counting calories and absolutely exercising everyday. Or at least 5 days a week. As I got to a goal I added more calories which is a good sign. I went up to 1200 and the more I loose the less I have to exercise (three days a week for maintance) and the more I get to eat! Sounds weird but it's true because you change your matabolism. I have not stopped cooking or eating the things I love, but I was very strict on keeping to that certain amount. The biggest motivator for me now is going shopping and buying anything I want. I bought all size 6 recently and plan on being a healthy 4 by summer. It will work if you are dedicated.
And wow, SIX kids?? Your so young? I'm 39 and have two!