Chandster,

I always start at www.vacationstogo.com

Using their search at the bottom of the page, you can enter that you want a 3-6 day cruise out of San Diego, Long Angeles, Long Beach, etc. during January (you can also 'add one month' to pull up Feb as well)...doing this, I found a ton of cruises that fit your parameters, both on Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Most are running $250-400 per person.

Most itineraries I found include Cabo and/or Ensenada.

Check the different room categories, as sometimes it's only $50 more per person to go from an inside room to a room with a window, possibly even a balcony.

While onboard, you can expect to pay out of pocket for photos, drinks (unless you are happy with lemonade and iced tea), excursions off the ship and any gambling. There are also tips you'll need to pay at the end of the cruise.

I think you can easily do this trip for around $1000 all in.

Use vacationstogo as a starting point; you don't have to book through them (though I have, and they are reputable). It's just a quick way to narrow down your options. You can go to www.cruisecompete.com once you know what sailing you want and they will have agents bid on your cruise. There you might get discounts, free upgrades or insurance.

I think what you are doing is very nice. I hope it works out for both of you.