having to program yet another MCU using yet another tool set when the O/P is having difficulty getting a two-uart 805x type and still learning this MCU is asking a mite much, don't you think?

Yes, MCU's with two serial ports are hard to get in some locales if you're buying one or two. If you're buying 1k or 2k per week, it's different. If you have a production-targeted application, the mfg's will compete to send you free samples. If you're a hobbyist, then you'll have to mail-order them and pay for them, but you can do that. It may take a week or two to get them, but once it's done, you're on your way.

Otherwise, you could, of course, use and external UART, e.g. an 8251 or some more modern equivalent. You'll find, however, that the pain and suffering you encounter with an external UART and baud rate generator well justifies using an internal one and simply waiting for the appropriate MCU to arrive.

RE