CAN communication project

I know pretty much nothing about CAN communication but I want to make a project that uses CAN.

I know this is oversimplified but I want to be able to send out information on the CAN to control devices. I also want to poll information to see what those devices are doing.

I've ordered the demo boards from Microchip that have the MCP2515, MCP2551 and an 18F4550. Hopefully that will give me a headstart in learning what I can and cannot do. I also have the CANcardXL from Vector if that helps at all.

I already have a nice VB6 program that interfaces with an 18F4550 so I'm hoping that I can use it with the CAN stuff to display temps, digital logic, etc.