o_o So you know, the people who said 8 glasses a day were just kind of making it up. You're supposed to drink water until you don't feel thirsty anymore, don't push yourself because it differs for each person. Tea and flavored water (I use Tetley Tea Infusions sometimes, cause their blueberry stuff is yummy~) help to relieve the boredom of water every now and then. Also, drinking one cup of COLD water an hour before a meal is good for your metabolism.
:D Eating breakfast is good for your metabolism and small meals too. Just watch what you nibble on (write in a food diary or something.. @_@ I hated it at first, but it does keep you on track). I also make sure that I plan ahead so I can just nuke something.. and I bake my own "healthy" cookies too, for when I have an "omg! I MUST HAVE SUGAR" moment.
Calorie Counter is an ok site for health things. The weight calculator is pretty good too since it bases it off your age, height, gender and weight.
Also, don't forget that weighing yourself isn't important! Muscles weigh more than fat, so if you're looking to get motivated, that might not be the best place to do it. Instead, measure your inches off the waist, arms and thighs.