Food Issues

Okay, everyone knows (well, lots of people know :) ) that eating is 80% of the healthy body-weight loss- fitness equation. Fantastic! If I eat right I have most of my mission conquered right there. Get in some movement that I like consistently and that is the whole package, I am all set.

Except...

What is eating right?

Is it Paleo? Low Carb, High fat, High protein, High carb, clean eating, calorie counting, carb counting, macro-nutrient counting? Do I have to count something? Do I have to give up something? Do I have to give up everything?

Next Saturday is my monthly shopping trip. I am trying to figure out how to stick within my grocery budget ($300), make approximately 100 meals (give or take) for a family of 4 for one month. That in itself is hard enough, but I need also need help in figuring out the best, the healthiest, the easiest, the most sustainable way to eat to help me conquer my food demons and lose this weight.

• So - I ask you - what eating plan / lifestyle works best for you? 
• Why? Do you make allowances for "life" (birthday parties, holidays, special occasions) or do you maintain your eating style during those times too?
• How expensive or budget friendly do you feel your way of eating is?

Any advice would be helpful and appreciated. I want to get this food monkey off my back!