If you’re looking for a great place to meet and have an outdoor picnic, you can’t do better than to head out to Deep River Farms, 362 West Elm Street, Deep River. I met my friend Rita there and we sat and gabbed and drank our coffee for several hours, while treated to beautiful vistas, chickens roaming around, artists creating their artwork, children playing, and people otherwise having fun. Then we checked out the store and found all sorts of fresh and prepared goods, and even some Connecticut-made kombucha, which can be purchased by the serving, or in growlers. It also has more than a dozen variety of farmsicle popsicles with a wide range of creative flavors. We left with light hearts and our bags full of delicious food. Hours are generally 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and the farmsicle stand opens at noon. Call first to check on hours and availability, at 860-662-9124, or visit www.deepriverfarms.com.—Pem McNerney