MOTM

I'm starting to work on a couple of my own designs and I'd like to 
use PICs in a number of places.  I have no experience with them, 
however I do know how to write low level code, burn EPROMS and 
design circuitry.  Years ago I used to write assembly level code for 
the 8085 and Z80 families for use as microcontrollers before there 
was such a thing.  My question for the group is this:
I do not know where to start as far as what I need to program the 
PICs.  I really don't think I need an emulator per se, my designs 
are not going to be that complicated and I'm reluctant to spend a 
lot of money, but I would like to know what the group members think 
as far as what I can get for my computer to assist me in writing and 
putting the code together and actually burning the chips.  I also 
would welcome any suggestions on where to get what I need.  I've 
looked at the DigiKey catalog and come away confused.  I know a 
number of group members have implemented PIC based designs so I'm 
asking for your help.
Thanks in advance.
Paul Haneberg

BTW, Nektar's Okay, but I prefer Gentle Giant.  I wish they'd get 
back together!!!