Hello and Happy New Year to all!!
Well, we are having a "cold Front" in Austin, around 32 degrees which is a big change for us from the 70's we were having.  Ha, ha. I know in Debi and Mary's world that is no big deal, but hey for us it is. I had to cover lots of potted plants to keep them safe. 
   I had been in San Antonio last week to teach a class and now in Austin this week. Whohoo, holiday on Monday, MLK day.  Also I am headed to El Paso at the end of the month for a class and Corpus Christi in Feb.
    Just wanted ya'll to know that I am still thinking of Costa Rica for next year. The best way to do this tour would be to use a travel group that my brother uses for his Baylor Univ. Students. Tropical Expeditions is a great group and they provide the transportation and guides, and cover hotels and most meals.  Check it out at https://www.costaricaguides.com/vacation-packages/tropical-expedition-with-manuel-antonio
You can see that the basic tour starts at $975 (air tixs are extra) for 8 days and 7 nights. It is extensive with a chance to see San Jose, Beach areas, as well as Arenal volcano.  Let me know if that is a good plan for ya'll. I think we can get a better deal if we know that at least 8 are going, for sure.  This is the double rate for rooms, but if you want a single room, it's a bit higher.  Of course, we can add on extra days in a specific area,if you want to--and that is your choice.  This travel group can customize if we want to add extra days, or just do on your own, as desired.  ( I would suggest an extra day in Manuel Antonio area or at least take a catamaran trip to Tortuga Island--really cool.)
   Driving in C.R. is crazy even for seasoned people--so do not suggest that at all, unless you are in the beach areas.  Many roads in the city are not named, so again an issue to find your location.  Uber is available everywhere, so no problem there.
   I suggest going in Late Jan. or Feb. since that is Dry season and considered off season for tourists.
That should give us a good leeway to save up and look at air fare rates. Southwest flys from Houston San Jose as well as United and American Airlines.
  Update: Brad is now the bass player for EXTREME HEAT.  Do you remember that band from the 70s and 80s? Well, they are still pumping it out in clubs in Austin.  Great music.
  So, just dreaming of fun next year,  so let me know what you think.....Love to all. Karen