There is a "picture computer" from Cevia ( http://www.ceiva.com/ ) that only displays pictures downloaded over an automated dial-up account. Cevia sells the account subscriptions, however, it looks like you pay them to keep up the account, or lose it all - no backups.

I've had the urge to build something similar for my Grandmother. The main task would receive and display pictures (just like the Cevia). A secondary task would announce appointments and times to take medicine. I've looked at the mini-box.com (it is Linux ready! Fluxbox/DSL?) for a base unit, and hope to find a touch-screen for the user interface.

Anyone have experience with a speciali(s/z)ed Mepis? Can this be found on another web site (or another Linux distro)?

Why don't you try this ?
Seems to be running Ubuntu.
http://www.linutop.com/

A little off topic: Where do you live?

BTW, worthy & interesting project.

Excellent. Also was pointed to this: http://www.gumstix.com/waysmalls.html
Literally (and gladly) around the world. I am easily confused with how words are spel(t/led).

Have a look at this

http://devices.natetrue.com/frame/

Tim