If you look on the ends of peoples' posts (in the signature bit) they often write about their losses each week/month which might help you. I've lost 20lbs in about 6 weeks.
When I go out, I drink spirits and diet coke. I think soda/tonic is okay too. It's the mixers that will knock up your carb count!
Beer, cider, wine and rum all have carbs in.
Hope this helps
Sam x