My PIC development system is currently made up of:
Windows laptop (no serial port)
PICBASIC PRO
MPLAB IDE
MACH X PIC Programer (USB to PC and has ICSP connector)

I want to upgrade to in-circuit programming and in-circuit debuging but the options are overwhelming. I recently (1/1/10) retired and PIC programming of various gadgets is attractive to me, so I want a reasonably priced system of development with those cababilities.

I see all kinds of options out there but have made some bad choices up to this point so I want to ask first this time.

Can you please outline a few options so I can get off on the right direction?

Thanks.