The pink house

This is the pink house that I am thinking of leasing. It is in the Historic Sixth Ward of Houston. The house has more than enough room for my "stuff".

It is on a corner (in this area of town, they have ditch areas not regular curbs & sidewalks. However on the side of the house there is a sidewalk. The home behind me the landlord also owns and rents to two tenants, and the landlord lives across the street, and directly across and next to where the landlord lives, he is putting another home on a lot which has been moved what he told me is the oldest house in Houston.

It is an interesting choice, an up and coming historic district, somewhat bohemian, and definitely different then living in a community property where everything is new. This has older appliances, bathrooms with the old claw tubs (yes they still have showers). It does not have covered parking or a garage, but it does have a driveway.

It is closed in driving time to my office. It has multiple entrances, so a section could be used as an office, or possibly even a gallery. (I am checking on that).

Spent the entire day today looking at properties, tomorrow will do much of the same and try to make a decision - any advice you would like to give - call or email.

happy birthday Rob - sorry I am missing your birthday !

Billy

Good Bye Getzville

I took this picture of Mom & Dad in front of alot of the tree limbs that now line the street, you can even make out the tree branches that hang down, but need to be cut down.

Mom & Dad headed to Myrtle Beach and I headed back to Dallas. I took this picture of the sunset as we circled Dallas before landing.


Copyright 2006 William H. Miller All Rights Reserved

Just Super !

Had a very busy day today. I got my marching orders to move to Houston, sooner rather than later. I know that this will be difficult for some of the greatest friends that I have made in Dallas. But I have moved before, and the one thing I have learned over the years, is that your true friends stay your friends, no matter what is going on in your respective lives, and no matter where you live, or how much you see each other.

I worked out today at the gym, I did the treadmill for 1 hour and 15 minutes, and a workout by one of the personal trainers who was evaluating my fitness condition. Good News lost another 2 pounds (of course, not official 24 Hr Fitness weigh-in)! That makes 14 Total, and if I can loose another 3 pounds - I will be at 279. So now when I come to Toronto, I will have Peter and Godfrey to train me and keep me progressing. As Steve Syke taught me - No Excuses. He is a great trainer as well, I can see him doing that for a living if anything ever happened to BBig Blue.

After work tomorrow I am off to Buffalo, to spend the weekend with Mom & Dad, see the pictures of the Great October Snowstorm, and hear the stories, but at least they will have power and heat unlike most of the previous week they endured without it.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Work Out

Had a busy day today at work. Then came back to the hotel. It is amazing being back in a city. I forgot how much exercise you get from walking blocks to and from the subway, going up lots of stairs -- hard work when you are carrying your computer and papers in a shoulder bag. I changed into my workout clothes, and walked to the gym "eXtreme fitness" - after checking in, I headed for a treadmill and walked and ran for 3.5 miles. I returned to my hotel, and ordered a mixed green salad with grilled chicken breast....it was good. I watched "The Biggest Loser" for inspiration - it is always a good reminder to stick with it each day.


Mom & Dad have electricity back on!! and they are so happy.

COW TILE

You can see cows in the strangest of places...like the subway. I saw this an instantly thought of digital art.

Not much to report today.





Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

TO ABSTRACT

I created this image from a photo that I took of th office building that I work at when I am in Toronto. For those in the know, this is the Nestle Building.

I worked a long day today, but took time out to work on a birthday party invitation for my friends Ann & Laura. I also went for a walk, and visited a local gym located between where my hotel is and where the office is. They actually had a Direct Energy rate, so I joined, because I can use the membership when I am in Toronto, and then freeze it until I return the next month. So I have no excuses when I come to Toronto about working out. I saught this out after the gym at the hotel, both treadmills did not work. I still managed to get my workout in.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Marathon Art and More

Sunday started out with breakfast of oatmeal and fresh fruit and coffee. Right outside the hotel they were beginning the Toronto Marathon. Thousands of runners. After I finished breakfast I went outside and they were passing by the hotel again, it was about 18 km, and they were on their way. It was fun to cheer the runners as they passed by.



The I took the subway down to Osgoode street and came up from underground to see the other end of the Marathon, and believe it or not they actually had people running here. This was mile 25 - so they were finishing.




I proceeded down Queen Street West, looking for the MOCCA (Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art). While walking and seeing the sites of great graffiti, I ran into some scary friends of Bud, Chester and Virgil. It may even have been them in their Halloween Costumes because they were a little scary.

After about a 3 mile walk to the MOCCA down Queen St. W --- seeing the Art & Design District. I think I walked about a total of 7 miles total.

At one point I walked a sidewalk artist do his art.
I saw this on a sign, and it made me think of Jim & I and Art Patrol.

After walking I ate a late lunch at the restaurant called Day Break. It was a great breakfast diner. I over did my calories, but figured with how sore my feet were I could spare a few extra.

After a great breakfast for my lunch, I walked some more, took the subway back to the Novotel and then a long nap! Boy did all the walking wear me out.

After waking, I took a nice shower, then headed out again for another walk. It reminded me walking in the cold crisp air of when I lived in New York City. You walk almost everywhere and you never think about it. The cold air keeping your cheeks red, and ears cold. I stopped in for a slice of pepperoni pizza and Sprite. (again not on my diet, but I could not find a place to get a chicken breast) - I still think I was well within my caloric intact.

Copyright 2006 William H. Miller All Rights Reserved

T O DAY

Spent the day today seeing TO (the slang for Toronto, that I learned from Michael) A day of lots of walking, subway riding, art galleries, the VIP (Villiage Idiot Pub), Starbucks, Sunsets, Andy Warhol, Henery Moore, Salvador Dali, will probably go to a piano bar called of all things Zippers (not at all like the Zipperz in Dallas!, there is no Robb!)

Blog Buffalo

Been a crazy day -- It was Steve Frederick's Birthday, they had a huge snowstorm in Buffalo, NY, I am in Toronto...12 pounds thinner and very tired- so I am going to bed early and will blog more tomorrow.

Cherish is the word

Today's Starbucks meeting was attended by Jim, Karen, Burt and myself; as well as a phone call from Michael in Buffalo. The minutes of the meeting are as follows. Jim is the Bitterest. Jim was giving out his number and talking to others via cellphone at the same Starbucks. Timmer was unable to attend even though we gave permission for him to attend because he was in Portland OR being given an award for being the 2nd best Vet in the US! He even had a luau (almost Phillipines!). Karen was given the laptop that was Mark's so she could do her school work in exchange for a donation to his scholarship fund. Jim put it out on the table that I was committed to giving $10 for every pound that I loose from now till Feb 2nd to Mark's scholarship fund in honor of his birthday. Sounds like my friends are going to also be supporting me by making donations in different amounts for every pound I loose. Talk about encouragement! Everyone wants Everyone to know that we Cheesish (Cherish, unless you spell like Jim) each other. I prefer Cheddar! Michael A called and said either you are in or you are out! Obviously Armando was "OUT"! Armando said that he was still working on selling that listing and was unable to attend, but he did attend last week when no one made it. Some say that he may have been sitting outside of Baja Fresh remembering.

Until we meet again!

Finding Meaning

I created this piece from the typed word Spirituality. The word was given to me by my friend Karen, who was searching for meaning in this word, and how others interpret it.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Creating Again

Created some companion pieces for the piece called Love. Joined by Love are Mercy on the left and Compassion on the right. Was a fulfilling day, worked out hard with my trainer, put in a full day of work, fixed my iTunes account which took two days to move the thousands of songs that I have burned from my cd collection.

Excited about the upcoming art events - Art Conspiracy 2, Art Rage Us 3, PACE THREE (a.k.a pastry).

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

We love ....

We don't love the people we love because they are perfect, we love the people we love because they are. Even after they are gone.

This was a line that caught my attention inbetween loads of laundry on Sunday night television from the show Brothers & Sisters. It says alot.

This has been a very busy weekend. I weighed in on Saturday - lost another 2 lbs. That gets me to 9 total in 2 weeks.

Working on my ipod, visited with Andrew, celebrated Warren's birthday, visited with Jim & Jack, did some organizing, participated in a fund raiser with my art, had great dreams, and busy getting ready for my next business trip.

CONNECTION

Today was a busy day at my corporate job. Worked late, and have to turn in so I can get up early tomorrow. Many of my friends are busy with their jobs and lives also - Toronto, Dallas, Buffalo, Houston, Tampa, etc... taking time out to keep your friends informed, and being involved in each other's lives takes time, commitment and hard work.

So Karen who is working on her masters asked a question to get different perspectives, here is mine, but feel free to leave comments of your own, just leave your real name so she can quote you if she wants.

What does SPIRITUALITY mean to you?

To mean spirituality or spiritual is a term that I usually to describe my belief or faith. I do believe in some connection between all living things and the universe that surrounds us and we play a part in effecting. I believe that this connection can be at times called "GOD", however the term God has been used by man to describe many things and can be misintrepreted by people who have a different understanding or meaning of god. Thus I think of the word connection. You have the connection to life, the connection to death, you have connections to the world around you, the people at your work, your place of worship, your friends, your family, and even those strangers who influence in numerous ways but may be unaware of. It is this connection, and understanding of the connections that to me is the understanding of my belief system as spirituality. I believe you can look at the connections between how your mind can heal your body, and people will say that your inner "spirit" helped you to do that. Well what is that inner "spirit" is you. Yes, you. Some people would like that "spirit" to be not you, but the workings of "God" - I believe that this belief was started by those who first formed religion to be a method of communicating things in a way to control people's beliefs as something out of their own control. I believe that the power of prayer is the power of concentrated thought, and that thought can actually be translated into effect... you may say that this happens becuase God makes it happen, but I prefer to consider the fact that we - our individual spirit - can alone or combined with others have an effect on the universe that surrounds us.

I saw a billboard as I entered Houston, last night.
It said "Imagine Peace"
At first it may me wonder, then I noticed it said in small letters below
"Yoko Ono"
I then thought I wish I could get a picture of the sign, then I wondered if all the people that saw this sign that travelled by it, would actually take the time to truly imagine peace - what effect that would have on their lives at that moment and also to effect the future. As an artist I know that you can be very surprised how your own actions, views, thoughts, ideas, and even abstracts can evoke a feeling or action in a person viewing your art. I think this cause and effect can be viewed as "spiritual" - you have transformed a thought into art which causes a reaction that causes action.

Life Walk

Today I was a 5K with friends for the Dallas Life Walk, which raises funds for AIDS Arms. Shortly after finishing that I drove to Houston for a week filled with work and training. Then I return to Dallas next weekend for an art exhibition which is also a fundraiser for the Life Walk. I have donated one piece of art and will be hopefully selling 3 others. Been very busy keeping up with the various art assignments as well as getting ready for some shows coming up in November & December.

Had some great talks on my drive to Dallas, with Eric in Los Angeles, Mom & Dad in Buffalo (the Bills won!!) and Helen in St. Louis.

Here is a picture of Steve (I'm taking the picture) this was around the mile mark, and people were everywhere (about 3,000) !

Copyright 2006 William H. Miller All Rights Reserved

1 Week - 7 Lbs

It was my first week weigh in -- and I am now at 288 and lost 7 lbs. Not sure if that makes me the biggest loser of the week. Did alot of work today, worked out, worked on art, worked on getting ready to go to Houston. Went to Mark Mullino's art show tonight - great to see a person with a musical talent incorporate that into his art.

Got T-cells?

Happy Birthday Jim!!!

A group of friends joined Jim for a surprise birthday at Sambuca's. Burt picked up the Birthday Boy, but did not tell him we would all be there. We being Karen, Timmer, Jim L. aka Snipple, Glenn, Cliff, Armando and myself.

A birthday theme around the letter T for ...


Afterwards we went to Jim & Glenn's party pad for some cake. Somehow the sugar really effected Jim as seen here.

Back in Dallas, only two more days to my weigh in....

Lots more to tell now that I am back, but need rest and good sleep.

This if for those earlier risers.

And BTW - I only had iced tea to drink, about 3oz of blackend tuna, some rice and two stalks of asparagus, and a small house salad. Oh yes, and water, and two spoons of ice cream and cake of jim's (tried hard to keep it under 100 calories) - more cardio tomorrow.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Today's Workout

It was a tough workout tonight. I got to the gym early, after I stopped by the Apple store and bought a sport's armband to hold the iPod that I got from my brother. In a way it is a small reminder that he is always with me, even as I work out. Every now and then one of his songs pops up and plays - I get a kick out of that - ever been working out to Marilyn Manson? Well I worked out for 40 minutes, doing another 2 miles on the treadmill. At 7pm, I met with my trainer Cliff - he immediately asked for my journal. I need to write down everything I eat with the corresponding calories. He gave me an A- for eating, only because I needed to eat more! I was only eating about 1750 calories and I am supposed to be eating 2100 calories -- it is hard to do when 15 carrot sticks only equal 30!

Cliff then proceeded to put me through my first entire strength workout - for the next three weeks, three times a week, I go through this workout - Cardio everyday 40 minutes +, one the workout days - I do Chest Press, Seated Row, Leg Press, Leg Extension, Leg Curl, Shoulder Press, Triceps Extension, Biceps Arm Curl, and Abdominal Crunches. I do two sets of 20 reps each, except for crunches which are 25 reps each. They are 25 because I got cocky and told him I could do more, so he said go ahead, he failed to tell me that I was going to have to do a 2nd set.

I can tell you I am going to feel this as I try and get back into shape. I am so tired, and have an early morning as I get to the airport to fly to Houston. --- off to bed now I am very tired, and will have no trouble sleeping.

Dove Bars

I had a busy day, doing lots of laundry, getting ready for my next trip to Houston. Met with my trainer today, he walked me through 1/2 of the strength routine I will be doing, as well as took all the measurements. We will do the measurements about every two weeks, and the weight every week to measure progress and know what's occuring in my body. I also signed up online for the www.biggestloserclub.com . Ate healthy today by following my calorie menu that they gave me. I even took the Dove Bars from my freezer to Warren's home tonight for our weekly Desperate Housewives viewing party. I also brought my own salad and chicken breast with green beans, so I would not be tempted by the Frito Taco Chili that everyone was eating. I regretfully missed the opportunity to meet Burt's boyfriend, Tim.... I heard he is really nice. He must be to like Burt (Jim throw up here!). I meet with the trainer, Cliff, again tomorrow. I pick up my jacket for next year's DIFFA Collection, excited about the opportunity to do that again. Well need to finish some laundry and get a good nights sleep.

I signed up

Today I took the first step. I committed myself to losing weight and becoming more fit. I signed up at the gym membership I have had but have not used in some while at 24 hour Fitness, I joined the Biggest Loser contest, they have going. It will be a weight loss contest from now through Nov 12th. They say that you can loose 15 pounds in those 6 weeks, and that the person who signs up and loses the most will win a year's membership to the gym. Today I had my consultation, tomorrow I have my fist workout with a trainer. I walked about 2 miles today on the treadmill. I will try to report on my progress in the blog and let you know how things are going. Started weight 295lbs. My friend, Steve, also joined the contest - I think he will be very good motivation for me, and it is nice knowing that you have someone you know going through the same.

You never know who you meet along the way...

Tonight I learned something.
You need to follow your dreams.
You need to accomplish your goals. (or at least try!)

I have a friend, his name is Robert, he has climbed Killenmenjaro (sp?) - wow --- what are we waiting for --- climb your own mountains and tell the story.

It was a great day. It was a great evening.

Hi Coo

there once was a man who was a vet...
who met an asian...who he didn't know yet...
but, it was fate beyond the dogs cries...
it was pressed in a frame there it lies...
a petal of truth of hope for the future...
that we can all be one...
or at least these two
can put each other out of their misery...
and we can all live happily ever after...
insert tear and a fog machine here....

Crack & Coffee

Well it was another eventful evening at Starbucks. The evening started with a small group (Jim, MaFred, Mark and myself), Mark Mullino picked up his postcards created for his upcoming art show at Jim Frederick Studios the weekend of Sept 29 & 30th 7pm-10pm - check out his new paintings.

Then we had a continuouse trickle of attendees, as we grew and became louder, the person in the corner chair on his computer eventually moved and we of course moved in. We were joined by Karen, Burt, Joe (a.k.a. Chuck), Jack/Jeff, Jim L. (a.k.a. Mr. Snipple), Armando arrived at 8:30 exactly (wonders never cease), then Glenn (a.k.a. Mrs. Snipple - 65 and going strong!, "my nipples are original!"), and of course PaFred who joined us via cellphone (still don't think he knew who he has talking too!, Hope he has returned that baby he borrowed by now). Missed but not forgotten, Bud, Chester, Virgil, Flat Seth, Cliff, and Bob (he was tied up with duck tape according to Joe).

The notes of this week's meetings are as follows - Karen & Burt have known each other for 3.5 years - someone wore a demin shirt at a Bday Party for Karen (not sure if it was Burt or Karen?). Armando is celebrating 3 years with the adorable Cliff/Chris, and knows this becuase it follows his nieces' birthday. neither should expect gifts. A shelf fell at the Casa Riveria and unlike Mary Poppins the books and things still lie on the floor (what's a week?) Armando was reported to have been asking around again if "I" really work, or am I just traveling and playing pretend. (Like Armando pretends to sell Houses!...some people shouldn't throw stones at their glass houses). PaFred is convinced that Puerto Rico is the "big island" of the beautiful Phillipines (wave hand cross gesture from knee to crown); Joe recently returned from visiting Lake Tidy Bowl (Lake Huron is so very blue!), The question everyone wanted to know the answer to, and expect to read it on Jim's Blog is Jim - Is it better being here at Starbucks with the United Colors of Bendoverman or at home in bed doing your best Greta Garbo impersonation? , Rumor has it that Bud & Chester are in rehearsals for their upcoming show tour - Bud & Chester and the Gnomettes! The Farewell Tour!, Rumor has it that Burt is seeking out the well know Nippoloigist - Dr. Tittle, Seems that their will be a party sometime after Thanksgiving to celebrate a local celebrity who is 65 (doesn't look a day over 50) and is looking for bartenderesses from Hooters, For those of you special enough to get an invitation through the front door (and not the freight elevator with the help) should plan to arrive at 6:50pm and you should make sure to bring the guest of honor a bud vase or a velvet painting of your favorite Elvis or Jesus. Someone asked if "Blackberry" was code? Could it be the screen name of the neighbor, someone found on Yahoo! Singles? I am not telling, I am just saying. We were joined by more trees this meeting - Jack being a fig tree, Glenn being a dutch elm (they are dying out), Joe - a buckeye (because of the big nuts), Jim L. a crabtree (too true!) and MaFred - an Ornamental Peach - and just look at the "Fruit" she bore! In case anyone is interested in Karen's fisher price purse, check with Burt, his people made it. And finally --- Butt Crack and Coffee are a dangerous combination! Do not try this at home! Until Our Next Meeting! Goodnight. Read PaFred's Blog for more information... and of course

EAT HEALTHY AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

carrying on

nothing to blog about.
ate healthy.
worked hard.
and
created.



all and all a great day to be alive.

Yes, I ate Salad for Dinner!

Tonight I had dinner with Tommy & Rich at Cindy's. My dinner started out with a salad, yes a green salad! (thunderous applause heard throughout the land)
It was a very good salad. It was a busy day in Dallas, working, getting things done around the apartment, errands, shopping, taking out the garbage, checking in with everyone. (even Jim, yes I ate the salad - now you drink your water.) After the salad I had a roastbeef on rye bread covered with brown gravy...yum yum.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Coincident ?

I thought I would type a small bit. It has been a long day traveling in the airports of the US getting back to Dallas. It is Gay Pride weekend here in Dallas, and many of my friends were out celebrating. I got in too late to celebrate, and have gotten home, brought my bags in, started uppacking, going through 10 days of mail, and blogging. I got a wonderful picture in a frame from my cousin Tammy & her husband Ken. It was of her, my cousin Chrissy and me. The Bills Won!!! 16 to 6 against Miami! You know Markie was screaming big time. Mark is a huge Bills fan, and I am not sure wether or not he was at the game when the Bills won the AFC Championships --- but I was sitting in the Buffalo Airport, at their sports bar/restaurant watching the Bills game before I had to board my plane - and they had this large mural of a picture of the game --- and it kept me staring at it -- could it be? hmmmm ---

Eating Right Is For Turkeys

The day started with the news in Jim's blog concerned with my dietary consumption. As we did the usual Miller routine of getting the paper as we headed for breakfast - the headline read -
ECOLI SICKNESS ...

It happens to come from that green food Jim so wants me to eat! Good thing I stayed away from that at breakfast.


For dinner we headed to Teds for some great charcoal cooked hotdogs! Yum Yum, with fries and a large Loganberry.

And it was very convienient that Anderson's Custard was right next store.


We saw a wild Turkey walking around Teds and Andersons, he found this shiny bummer and kept pecking at it.

After we got home we had a message waiting, it was Big I and she wanted to make sure that we were eating right. Seems that this eat right movement that Jim has started is converting others to take up the fight.

My Uncle Dennis sent a nice email today, and I told him about reading the blog, so maybe he will convert to reading regularly, eating right and drinking lots of water.

I return to my Dallas home tomorrow.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

The Miller Family Plot

We buried Mark's ashes today in the Boxwood Cemetery in Medina, NY. We also paid our respects to the other Miller relatives buried close by to where Mark is now. We also have spaces next to Mark, for our Parents, and myself.

I learned that my Great Grandfather, John Miller, died in a factory accident after getting his arm caught in a conveyor belt. My Great Grandmother, Mary, actually came to the US on a boat which sank and she was rescued as a young girl, she entered Canada, where she was adopted by the Mayor of Fort Erie, Gothard. Her adopted sisters were named Stella and Blanche Gothard. Then you have my Grandparents - Harold Frederick Miller. (How freaky is that, Jim!) and Majorie Maud Lacy Miller. She had a sister, Geraldine Lacy McKinney (Huband Donald McKinney). My dad was named after Aunt Geraldine. I remember meeting my grandmother's father Delbert Lacy, or Grandpa Lacy to me. My grandfather, sister - Aunt Viola, and brother Clifford.

This has been very interesting as I look back into my family tree. Now I need to investigate my mother's side - Felber, Noth, Hofer. I have more work to do.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Fish Fried

Well I made it to Buffalo, where I met my friends, at Brennan's Irish Pub for Friday Night Fish Fry!

Afterwards I met Michael's imaginary boyfriend (I even took his picture).




It was a night of seeing old acquaintances - Larry Adamczyk, Bobby Valentine, and Dennis (from Big Chill). I almost got lost going to Michael's because I followed the wrong car and did not know it until he pulled into a minimart, got out of his car, and guess what ? It wasn't Michael.


Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Poutine Routine

On the advice of my friend, Andrew, who suggested while I visited Toronto that I must come to the Church Street Diner. He even knew the owners, Richard & Alfredo, and asked me to say hello for him when I went.

A must dish he told me I needed to try was Poutine. Poutine is a French-Canadian concoction comprised of french fries, gravy, and cheese curds. It was quiet delectable. I had it with the 555 Burger.
After I ordered, I told my waiter that my friend, Andrew had sent me here, and he told me to say hi to Richard & Alfredo. The waiter told me he was Richard, and he said that Andrew was here and ate and left just 15 minutes ago. I said that had to be a different Andrew, because my friend was in Texas. He said no, we were talking about the same Andrew, the one who comes here with Thomas. He said that he was here for work.
I tried calling Andrew on his cell and it went to voicemail. I left a message.
I even took a picture of where Richard said Andrew sat and ate his dinner. Just in case I needed it for proof, and of course for the blog.
I then asked Richard if he knew where Andrew was staying and he said the Sheraton. So I called the Sheraton and got his room, and he answered. I told him he was in so much trouble, he totally forgot that I was here also. So I convinced him to meet me and we toured some of the bars on Church Street and Yonge Street. We had a great visit. We even visited Jim's favorite place (the only place he saw in our brief visit to Toronto one month prior). Remington says hi!

Well tomorrow is Friday, I work, and head back to Buffalo. Friday is Fish Fry night and I have two offers to go to two different places for Fish Fry. Woo Hoo.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved.

P.S. Church Street Diner is great, it is on 555 Church Street in Toronto, say hi to Richard & Alfredo if you stop bye.

Creating My Evening

I decided to use my evening to do some creating. I had some fun.

Family Tree

An interesting thing happened today. My mother got a call from her Uncle Jerry (my grandmother's brother) and his wife went to the gallery in North Tonawanda which had my show, but it was closed when they attended - but they noticed my art by looking in the windows. The called my mom to let her know that my Great Grandfather Felber, had a younger sister, Dottie Norton, who is also an artist - and she also does abstract art, and lives in Buffalo and shows her art.

I googled her and came up empty --- we know that she is around the age of my Uncle Jerry and Uncle Skip. My mom has her address and phone so we are going to try and set up a meeting.

My great-grandfather's sister is an artist, my mom is an artist, and me (an artist) ---- wow what a family tree. I wonder what kind of tree this is?

Hmmmmm?

0911

Looking for dinner tonight --- i found Jesse Jr. and thought of Burt. It was a Filipino Restaurant.

It was not open, so I found a 24/7 diner that served breakfast - so you know me - my usual.





Then I came back to the Hotel to find - Canadian Idol on! Fun!

But I remember this morning.... five years ago I was driving to work when they announced a plane hit the World Trade Center. I called my friend Denise, as I did then, to ask if she had heard from Carl, who worked across the street. We remembered the day, and each said a prayer.... Denise was actually in NY going to the memorial. I do not think I will ever forget.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Toronto

I made it to Toronto today. I took this picture while driving to my hotel. It is of the tower downtown.

I spent the day havng a breakfast with Mom & Dad, then putting more items into storage. When we finished Mom got out the frying pan and made us all some fried bologna on rye, with Weber's mustard. Then it was time to drive to Canada.

It was a nice day in the 60s & 70s. I am looking forward to a week of meetings here, and returning to Buffalo on Friday.

I got a call from Mark Mullino who is looking for help with postcards for his upcoming show. Well good news - I am available to do this via the internet, and will be able to create it, then send it to be printed and delivered back to Mark.

I hope my friend, Jim is feeling 60% better now, he mentioned he was 50% on Friday - -- it is all about baby steps.

Copyright 2006 William H Miller All Rights Reserved

Canadian Moose Lodge Member Found

A long kept secret member of the Canadian Moose Lodge 54 was seen today. Blazened with Maple Leaf Pride and many bottles of liquor she smiled for the paparratzi. Her name has been removed to protect that of her husband well known author of political editorials who is also on the run from both left and right wings.


Note - great art in the background!

Reposted as requested

You know I was only kidding!!!! Of course you can blog my date...
Please put it back on...this is too funny!
love ya!
me

Please sponsor me in the Ride for the Roses.
http://www.livestrongchallenge.org/06TX/burtbarber



Wanted to give you an update per Billy's blog...

After scavenging around town for all the ingredients, last night's picnic came through successfully.

We did not go to the Teddy Bear park, instead, I went down the road a little by the corner of Laurel and Lakeside and there were steps that led down to a secluded area down at the creek and it felt like we were out of town. If you want a picnic and be secluded and safe, this is the PERFECT spot!!!!

Tim didn't realize what was going on as I had the picnic basket hidden in the back of my SUV and I had him hold Cali (yes, she was there to add company and comfort). Thanks Ken for the AWESOME picnic basket!!!!! This basket held everything!!!!

As we headed down the steps and I had the basket covered in a blanket, I took the blanket and laid it down and unveiled the picnic basket ... much to the delight of Tim.

I told him to get comfortable as I emptied the basket full of goodies such as
- cream cheese with raspberry chipotle topping and wheat crackers
- red grapes (seedless)
- Bottle of red wine poured into Nalgene water bottles
- a card that I wrote inspired by Jim's blog yesterday about 'special days'. THANKS JIM!
- I also made homemade spaghetti. Tim thought that was unusual. I asked him what he expected...he said sandwiches...I said, please, I don't eat sandwiches for dinner, even if it is a picnic!!!
- Desert was Pistachio from Paciugos. This is our favorite ice cream. Billy, maybe it is the nutty flavor, maybe it is the smooth aftertaste...regardless, it is our favorite (Tim and mine, not yours and mine).

I brought a small cd player and played songs I had recorded the night before. the first song was "let's get it on' by Marvin Gaye. Pretty Amusing!

To top this off...Tim's favorite tree is a bald cyprus. My favorite tree is a live oak. Yes, Billy, I said if I were a tree I would be a Palm from the Island of Philippines (arm waving gracefully). However, my favorite tree is the live oak. Anyway, as we were lying there and looking straight up, we noticed two trees above us right next to each other was a live oak and bald cyprus...you'll see the photo on this as well.

I also had a gift for him. A crystal heart. He was pretty overwhelmed by it all.
Soon, it started to get dark, but there was light shining from the uplights in the trees. I had also packed a scented candle to help with the ambiance. Unfortunately, this scented candle started to attract mosquitos. You'll see Tim trying to force blood into a mosquito by flexing his arm where the mosquito was drawing blood...

We talked, laughed, ate, swat at mosquitos. The best part is that we were pretty secluded and the whole surroundings were pretty perfect. We ended the night back at my place...of course!
I will download some pictures and will send out shortly.

Love ya'll!!!!!
me

Buffalo

This picture is part of a railing in Buffalo, NY and the pink background is that of my friend, Michael.

Today started with sleeping in past 9 am - the windows open, and a light rain happening. Got up, showered and started the day by going to the bank to deposit a check for $2.17 - it took forever, and then when I came out of the bank - I tripped and fell - skinning my elbow and my ankle. After that drama, we picked up Mom and went to breakfast at Sandi's in Niagara Falls, with Louise & Lori. It was fun to see them and laugh about things.

Then we came home, and I delivered some artwork that had been bought while I was here last for my art show. I picked up Michael who helped direct me around town, we felt like we were young kids again laughing and driving around like we were 30 years old again. We took the picture during this time. Mike has a date with his "pretend" boyfriend tonight so I won't see him. We also went to the Galleria and I bought some new sneakers, and I got some great information regarding the iPod I got.

Then I came home - Iris and Mac were here and we had a nice visit, then Mom cooked a great meal (while I napped!) of Steak on the grill, fresh ears of corn, and yellow beans! Yummy. The evening was spent copying my brother's iTunes library so I can use it with the iPod, clearing out the basement, moving items to storage and blogging.



Tommorrow we go to the storage facility, we go to Medina to visit the gravesite plots (one for me too!), pick out the gravestone, and then I head to Toronto to enjoy a week of meetings for my corporate job.

BUCKY IS CAUGHT

When I arrived at the family home in Getzville, NY today I put down my bags and turned on the television. The news came on and the lead report was that they had cornered and were about to catch Ralph "Bucky" Phillips - one of the FBI's most wanted. What was ironic was that I had been home in July and they said that, then home in August and they said that and now here it is September and they are saying it again. I laughed and immediately called Jim Frederick to tell him that I must be in a time warp. It all ended this time - they caught him!

I worked most of the afternoon remotely via my computer, then Mom & Dad returned from her Dr's Appt - All Ok. Then we had dinner at the Country Cottage - I had Pot Roast, Mom & Dad had breakfast. We returned home, I started getting things organized around the house. They put alot of my art up on the walls of the house - looks cool. Showed Mom how to work her new cell phone - we're on the Family plan now - did some blogging and getting ready for a busy day tomorrow.

A message from Burt!

"this personal statement of love has been removed because of unauthorized usage"

Read between the lines.... sorry if you missed it, that is why you need to read the blog each day!

One Day

I started this blog talking about my day.... I just deleted it.

It has been exactly one month since my brother passed. I am going home to Buffalo to see my parents this weekend. But today was a day of relationships. It started with the relationship with myself and my spirit. Then I continued that relationship with my work. It was a good day, it was challenging day and rewarding day. Then it was an evening with relationships of family and friends. Visiting some in person, talking to some on the phone, and sharing emails and blogs with others. You cannot substitute television friends for real friends - except maybe Janelle - sorry she did not win. I had dinner with an old friend today and shared that with a current friend - it was fun to talk about the past and bring each other up to date. I am excited to share him with my Dallas friends. I am a very lucky man. I have the best relationships with my life, my work, my family and my friends.

Dear Jim - This Blogs For You

It was a cool evening when they met at Starbucks for the Weekly meeting of First Friends. Even though we had a quorum in case of voting we missed two key individuals (with voting priviledges) - Jim and Karen. Both are probably very tired (one from Statistics, the other from being one), they are similar in many ways (One is black on the outside, white on the inside, the other one (wore pearls) White on the outside, Black on the inside). Burt would say that you need to read between the lines. Topics of discussion at this weeks meeting - Armando's voice still sounds worst than Jim's voice, so why is he getting all the attention...resolution of this will be tabled until next week, as Armando tries out for the Dallas Summer Musical's revival of Hairspray (planning to play the part made famous by Harvey Weinstein). Next item - Burt's Picnic Basket, how big is it and what special surprise is inside waiting for his new found love - Timmer. We could go on and on and on showing pictures, poems and pressed flowers but that is a whole nother blog! Right Oprah? Details to follow tomorrow after the big surprise is revealed, but I have the inside scoop - so read it between the lines here first! Next Topic, If I Were A Tree? I would be.... the answers are as follows - Billy - A Birch - White & Flaky, Burt - A Palm, from the beautiful island of the Phillipines (wave arm gesture as appropraite), Armando - Aspen (Burt and I agree he is more Japanese Maple), then we voted on those who were not present, Karen - A Black Walnut (hello pointing out the obivious, and no Armando that is not a dead tree), and Jim - A weeping willow (with one T cell)...A tay in thy win!... (see Nell if you did not get that one.) Next topic new words...dicstraction, dicktation, buttstraction, a new fun way to pass the time at Starbucks, Alkeelah and her bee would be proud. Next Topic - Cliff's middle name is Dick, ok it is actually Richard, what a sense of humor his parents had - Cliff Richard Poore... Cliff Rich or Poor?. Also discussed June 24th, 2007 - is it the Poore-Rivera Wedding or the Rivera-Poore Wedding? Well that is about all we had to discuss, although Armando is distraut over Crock Hunter's death, Burt is watching Rosie on the view, Armando thinks Billy really does not have a job and pretends to flight away and is secretly staying away from his friends. Finally when asked about thoughts of Jim - these comments were collected by the reporter extraordinaire (Moi) - He is KranKy when he's sick (DOUBLE K!Y! Kranky); ONE singular sensational T Cell, Billy need to Blog Blog Blog Blah Blah Blah or he'll go Krazy, He was too sick for starbucks (that's not well), His Mom's In Town so he'll get better quick! (Nothing Like a Little Mother Loving! - Don't go there Burt!, Jim!, Armando), and finally Jim is Loved. We love you, Jim - get better soon - more fun blogs to come - Read Between The Lines all you want and we will laugh about it.

XXooHugsKisses
BillyBlogger

Made a blog entry...

Don't tell me what to do! Lol.... thanks for the comment you anonymous reader.