I have read the other posts but i am unclear if i can buy a plane ticket now and travel to cuba without a group. can I?

If i have to go with a group, is it too short notice or more expensive to do the group thing?

Yes, you can travel currently.
You need a Cuban tourist card, which the airlines or their agents are supplying for s fee.
The airline will keep a record of which of the 12 OFAC categories you choose as the purpose of your trip.
Keep detailed records of your "full time schedule" of qualifying activities, and hold onto them for the mandated 5 years, just in case OFAC ever checks.
Note: The new "guidelines" are likely to take 3 months from DT's announcement to be published, so things seem to be remaining the same (as with Obama) as previously for the interim.
Note: Group trips are about 4X more than DIY, but they do have some established connections with cultural entities that can be helpful if you really want to meet Cuban artists, dancers, writers, etc.

thanks for that info. I am going to try to get there soon. what if i flew to mexico then flew to cuba? would i have to keep records?

Yup. You'd still be entering Cuba on your US passport which is legal as long as you state one of the accepted reasons for travel.