Microchip controllers are very cheap, and the tools needed to start
developing applications are the cheapest existing today!
All you need is the ICD2 Programer/Debuger tool, about 200 USD, and a
good tutorial book. The ICD2 is a tool which you can use for a very
large range of Flash processors (possibly over 200), and the tutorial
book explains how to write firmware for any microcontroller of the
Microchip family. Even more; the tutorial book I am referring to comes
with a Hardware Companion Kit which helps you write and test all your
future firmware programs!
Check this site:
http://www.corollarytheorems.com/
Do not worry: you will learn this new exciting technology, the easy way!