Hi and welcome!
I'm new here too and I agree, there is lots of conflicting info out there and it can be overwhelming to try and absorb all at once.

I found a page that may help figure how many calories you need, but I am too new to post a link but try searching for "How Many Calories To Consume to Maintain Your Weight "
Congrats on getting rid of soda!!!
You may want to continue making 1 change at a time and when it becomes a "habit" or feels normal, add another change. You may feel less frustrated that way.
Good luck, Lucky! I hope 2011 will be your year to succeed!