February 2026 Canlife Correspondence: Willful Walks, Wicked Good Rally, RVing Women, Water Saving Tips, & Westward Ho!
"Freedom's just another word, for nothing left to lose," sings Janis Joplin in her famous version of the Kris Kristofferson song,"Me and Bobby McGee."
We call ourselves "Freedom in a Can" because it's what we found when we bid farewell to the life we'd been living prior to 2012 -- two good careers, a lovely house, a vibrant and loving community -- and hit the road with our "canned ham" vintage camper in tow. We didn't lose our jobs, get evicted, declare bankruptcy, or fall victim to disease or injury; we were privileged to make this decision for ourselves when it suited us best.
That decision has now sustained us for the past 13+ years, amazingly in the same can, far beyond the year or two that we initially imagined. Who knew that this tiny tin can trailer built during the Eisenhower administration could manage the tens of thousands of miles we've hauled? Honestly, when we view it all from 30,000 feet, it doesn't seem plausible; in fact, it's nothing short of incredible to us.
This "freedom" has allowed us to roam this continent where we wanted, when we wanted, to live more sustainably, to thrive with less, and to reconnect with friends and family scattered to the winds. And, this winter, it even gave us the ability to drive out of the path of a terrible winter storm to seek more balmy breezes on the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina.
Yet, freedom remains a loaded word for us all, and what it means depends on our life circumstances. Despite Bobby McGee's refrain, we all have something to lose when we make a decision. Maybe even south of Coldwater, Kansas where this road sign on Hwy 1 directs the choice between Freedom, Oklahoma and Protection, Kansas? A tough decision, for sure. But it's what we might gain that's so worth the risk...right?
Our travels over the past month resound with the echoes of the price paid for freedom, the very same month where we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the contributions and sacrifices made by African Americans. From crowds packed along a two-lane rural South Carolina highway, to the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, to a karaoke bar in coastal Georgia -- let freedom roam.
Chester County, South Carolina
Along a back road somewhere south of Rock Hill, North Carolina, we see a back-up of traffic, cars pulled off onto either shoulder, and an emergency vehicle flashing red lights. Oh no, with all the people alongside the road, we assume it has to be a really bad wreck. Only their faces aren't reflecting shock or horror; rather, they appear luminous, hopeful, and inspired. The flowers they're carrying aren't for the injured, they are for peace.
As the roads bends, we can see what's causing the back up and all the excitement, 10 or so brown clad figures walking single file along the side of the road. We have completely unintentionally (and unknowingly) caught up with the Walk for Peace Buddhist Monks on their 2300 mile journey from Fort Worth, Texas to The Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.
We see the effect of their silent passage on the crowd, their purpose reflected on the observer's faces -- joy, inspiration, and peace! The decision to walk to our nation's capitol (often barefoot) as a moving meditation on peace is also an exercise in freedom and has inspired millions to leave their homes and businesses to greet them along their journey.
Lowndes County, Alabama
On March 9,1965, 600 non-violent protestors intent on walking to their state capitol were met with tear gas and police brutality on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The event which sent 50 or more marchers to the hospital became known as "Bloody Sunday." But the Selma to Montgomery walk would not be stopped, and 12 days later the march continued as planned with protection from the National Guard and federal law enforcement. Later that year, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, was signed by President Johnson and millions of disenfranchised Black voters were finally free to vote. For some perspective, this was a full century after "Juneteenth" in 1865 (aka Freedom Day) which marked the day slavery officially ended in the United States.
Our drive from Mobile to Birmingham this week, took us along this 54-mile trail, and exposed us to not only the famous bridge, but also just how much we did not know about this complex story, and how much we have yet to learn. Along the route lies the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail Interpretative Center, just one of our nation's 433 National Park Sites. The park film and exhibits are outstanding examples of why we recommend that all park visits should always start at the Visitor's Center. We left full of inspiration, but also contemplating the casual manner and lighthearted way we've name our business.
Camden County, Georgia
We spent Hutch's birthday cycling around Cumberland Island National Seashore, the place where live oaks and wild Mustangs reign supreme. We've been meaning to hop on the ferry or paddle our kayaks out to this park for years, but never made the visit until now. It was as remarkable as all our visits to National Park Sites have been, but what stood out was the staff who brought the park to life with an incredible interpretive tour.
During the Civil War and after, Cumberland Island became a refuge for formerly enslaved peoples, where they established a thriving community and even the First African Baptist Church building, later made famous by the wedding of JFK, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.
Later that evening, we found an awesome bar in downtown St. Mary's to further celebrate Hutch's 55th year! And would you believe, it was also karaoke night? If you know Hutch, he NEVER passes up an opportunity to take the mic and belt out some tunes. The weekly event draws a crowd of some passionate crooners, who run the gamut from the talented to the...uhhmmm, let's say enthusiastic! Freedom of expression happens everywhere by anybody brave enough to stand up, speak their minds, move their feet, or even give their best rendition of "Mustang Sally."
Travel connects the dots of stories and histories -- here, there, and everywhere (see below for even more great historical sites to visit). If we can slow down enough to let the places we visit sink in, sit with the stories there, understand what and who lives (or lived) there, we can let maybe just a little bit in and let it transform us. Afterall, what have we got to lose?
- Tips & Tricks for Exploring America's National Parks
- RV Solar 101: How to Size a Solar Powered System for your RV
- Six Simple Strategies for Reducing RV Travel Costs
- RVing to Alaska: Tips & Tales from the Road
The Amazing OTZI Flat Pack Grill + Dream Alaska RV Road Trip!
What's up with that cool little flat pack grill that we use all over the place to make great meals? It's the only grill we've ever used that can tuck into a corner and still hold up to the elements!
We made this fun video on the Homer spit on the Kenai Peninsula back in 2022 when we went to Alaska for several months. We cycled into town to the local farmer's market, then made these delicious paninis from the bread, cheese, and veggies we bought, all while camping on the beach. Check out what Hutch used as the panini press...just LOVE his culinary creativity!
Want to get a taste of what it might be like to head to Alaska with your RV? Grab your favorite bevy and enjoy a tour through western Canada and Alaska (highlights from our 5 month trip). Want to plan your own Alaska RV adventure? Here's some of our favorite trip planning resources.
Oh, almost forgot, you can save 10% off an OTZI grill
with this link and promo code CANLIFE!
What an adventure it was for a few days...not only getting to Key West, but also the 140 mile round trip ferry ride, the Fort Jefferson tour, the incredible snorkeling, and all of the cool people we met along the way!
Here's a quick recap of our day in this fascinating park, where the island itself is not much bigger than the massive structure that sits upon it.
What's NEXT on YOUR National Park Bucket List?
18 Ways to Conserve Water While Boondocking
Parting Shot: Cumberland Island's Live Oaks & Wild Mustangs
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