Frequently Asked Questons
Who is Blair Campbell and why did she write Jamlachia? What is Funeral Swag? Why the bracelets? Where is Pocahontas County, WV and why is it so special?
FAQ
Who is Blair Campbell
Blair Campbell is a 6th generation West Virginian married to a first generation Jamaican American. Her family resides in Hillsboro, WV. Blair is an advocate of love and peace. Her desire to help others love themselves and live a good life drives everything she does.
What is Jamlachia?
Jamlachia is a term Blair coined to bring Jamaica and Appalachia together. West Virginia and Jamaica have a lot in common. Like Appalachia the people of Jamaica are loving, kind, and always eager to help a neighbor in need or throw a party.
What is Patois
Patois is the dialect that most Jamaican speak. The national language of Jamaica is English, but many people speak Patois, a dialect made from spanish, french, creole, and english. Wah Gwan is a patois for what is goin on.
Why Jamlachia?
Blair wants to help change the dialogue coming out of Appalachia. Althought the region is not as diverse as many regions in the county, it is not totally void of culture. Appalachian culture is real. Many other culutres reside int he are too. Traveling and experiencing the world is part of our cluture too.
What is so special about Pocahontas County, WV
One of the largest and least populated counties east of the Mississippi, Pocahontas County is dubbed Natures Mountain Playgroud. It is known for its rich history, scenic views, breathtaking rivers, and local ski resort. Not far from the Omni Homestead and The Greenbrier Resort, Snowshoe resort is Pocahontas' own year-round resort. Pocahontas County is home to the Green Bank Observatory, Watoga State Park, The Greenbrier River Trail State Park, Droop Mountain State Park, and Seneca State Forest. The Highland Scenic Highway runs through Pocahontas County.
Where did the inspiration come from?
Ever growing and learning is part of Blair's motto. Wellness and spirituality have become a focus of her life. Blair has found the ability to love herself, in spite of her flaws, and she wants her readers to do the same. Learning to embrace your unique qualities is part of growing up. Blair wants to spread wellness and self-love everywhere she goes. Being resilient is what makes one successful. At the end of the book, Momma Campbell giggles as she realizes breakfast is ruined. The old Momma Campbell would have become incredibly frustrated. Momma Campbell has learned to go with the flow and love life no matter how frustrating things become.
Why Jamaica?
Blair fell in love with Jamaica the first time she went. Something about Jamaica reminded her so much about West Virginia. Jamaica has mountains and beaches. Both make Blair very happy. Jamaica is the land of wood and water. Jamaica's motto is Out of Many One People. And also One Love. Reggae music and it's positive message have been part of Blair's life for a long time.
What's next?
Blair is a travel advisor, parenting coach, death doula, and substitute school teacher for Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties. She has two teenagers and a loving husband. Her future is bright and she is looking forward to 2025.