Some 20 years ago, a group of four steadfast friends from Enid, Okla., came to Eureka Springs to celebrate just knowing each other. Debi Williams, Connie Johndrow, Linda Green and Dana Swiggett had such a good time enjoying the town and strengthening their friendship that they made it a priority in their busy lives to return each September to reconnect.
Several years later, Dana was lost to a sudden illness and the little group was devastated. At first, they couldn’t imagine making the yearly trek for fun and friendship without their beloved comrade. But by then they’d had daughters and/or acquired daughters-in-law, so they finally decided to honor their friend and build on a happy, shared experience by inviting the younger ladies.
Today the group, known for some reason lost in history as the Wa Was, now numbers 11 and includes Dana’s daughter and daughter-in-law. Often dressed alike and spreading joy wherever they go, they were in town last week visiting favorite haunts and doing oddball things like the Thrift Shop Clothing Date Night pictured here
“We did a scavenger hunt that took us to all of their old hangouts including Missy’s White Rabbit, The Basin Park Hotel, Rowdy Beaver Den and Chelsea’s,” group spokeswoman, Holly McCormick said. “We really just enjoy being with each other; and the atmosphere of the front porch where we stay brings about a lot of laughter. Several of the ladies had massages and many of us shopped ‘til we dropped. In the past we’ve done zip lining, the Turpentine cat sanctuary, the chapel – you name it, we’ve probably done it.
“We’ve never not had a good time. We really just enjoy each other’s company and it’s good to catch up on life. We just celebrate us! In fact, this year’s theme was ‘It’s all about us.’ As usual, we had a great time.”
For those who toil in the tourist industry, it does the heart good to look up from the business of business and see a visiting group enjoying all the town offers while spreading merriment and goodwill along the way. It helps one remember what Eureka Springs is all about.