HAMPTON -- The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting recently to celebrate the opening of Hampton's newest store, Peaceful Life, located at 12 High Street.

Owned by sisters-in-law Gloria Forth and Susan Chute (who share many of the same interests and a general philosophy that guides their inventory choices), Peaceful Life offers unique products that are different from what can be seen in other area stores. The inventory includes home décor, gifts, and yoga supplies, displayed in a tranquil and soothing environment.

In today's mass-market world, opening a small independent store is no small feat. There have been many ups and downs in the past few months (what they sometimes refer to as another episode of "I Love Lucy" — "Lucy and Ethel Open a Store!")

Now that the store is open, Gloria and Susan hope everyone will take a break from their busy world, stop into Peaceful Life, take a breath, and relax.

Winter hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (603) 929-6200.