Another Houston biker here... some of this depends on how early you plan to ride in the winter... if you are doing the MS150 training series, you will be out early and need some warm clothes.

I swear by either knickers or knee warmers. I am one of those people that my knees have to be warm or I am not happy (nor are they!). I have a long sleeved jersey, but I usually just wear a shortsleaved or sleavless one with my bolero (I don't like arm warmers) with a jacket. I have a couple of jackets.. some warmer than others. If you only buy one, get a lighter weight one that the sleaves zip off to make it a vest.. VERY useful here as the days get warmer.

I second the suggestion to get some full fingered gloves... you will be much happier that first 45 degree morning! I also have an ear warmer, and I do have toe covers.. they are OK, and do help from getting a wind chill in the front mesh parts of the shoes...

If it gets colder than what this is good enough for, I will either add some wool layers and some running tights over my shorts/capris... or I will just wait until noon when it is warmer out or stay in all together!

Good luck!
Ellen