On December 3, 2016, the Messier Family Association held its first Holiday luncheon at the *Table champêtre* (country-style restaurant) of Ferme Équinoxe in Saint-Pie. Once again, chef-owner Jeannine Messier and her husband, Marc Lambert, welcomed us warmly with a seasonal menu.

The gathering was scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by Board members who served them a cocktail, specifically, a glass of wine from the « Domaine des 3 Fûts » vineyard in Drummondville, owned by Richard Messier and his partner, Jacinthe Morissette. The organizer, Nycole Messier, had arranged for appetizers (festive mini-bites) to be served during the cocktail hour. This was a wise decision, as it allowed many participants to meet and chat with other Association members who had accepted the invitation.

Around 12:30 p.m., the 24 participants were invited downstairs to take their seats. After the president’s welcome address, Richard Leonardo recapped the events of 2016 and briefly outlined the activities planned for 2017. Afterward, Jeannine presented the menu. Although the dishes differed slightly from the traditional fare usually served in our own homes at this time of year, everyone enjoyed the combination of duck confit *tourtière* and pork loin stuffed with turkey. It was absolutely excellent. And what can be said about the blueberry cheese tarts served for dessert? I know a few Messiers who thoroughly enjoyed them! We must also highlight the excellent service provided by Jeannine’s staff.