As The Twig is Bent…
The article "As the Twig is Bent" discusses parenting and work ethics.
It highlights how parents shape children's work habits and values.
The article includes interviews with school officials and employers.
Be Fruitful and Multiply
In this witty essay, Donna explores the amusing misconceptions and social challenges faced by mothers of large families, from being treated as conversation pieces at parties to having repairmen use their homes as tourist attractions.
It’s Much Better Now
A poignant reflection on giving away baby items as children grow up, capturing the bittersweet reality that while life becomes easier without the demands of caring for infants, a mother's heart still aches for those tender early days.
Those Old-Fashioned Small Town Suppers
Donna reflects on the charming community spirit of old-fashioned small town fundraisers, where chicken suppers, box auctions, and church socials brought everyone together in ways that today's Las Vegas Nights and fashion shows simply cannot replicate.
Hurt Feelings
by Donna Hruska May 24, 1966 Remembered Experience Maternal Debut – Writing Class “I am not! I don’t care what you say!” my son yelled back at the little knot of boys standing on our driveway. He banged in the door and threw himself on the sofa, the tears rushing down his red seven-year-old face …
Train up Your Child in the Way He Should Go
Donna argues that parents should encourage their children's early work experiences and entrepreneurial spirit, explaining how teaching responsibility, work ethic, and independence from a young age builds the character traits that employers value most and leads to lifelong success.
Be Fruitful and Multiply
A humorous 1966 article exploring the social challenges faced by mothers of large families, from being treated as conversation pieces at parties to enduring well-meaning but misguided comments from neighbors and strangers.
My Hurricane (Jennifer)
In this charming 1965 essay, Donna playfully compares her energetic toddler daughter Jennifer to a hurricane, exploring why children aren't named after storms instead of the other way around.
The Eaglet (Jeffrey)
"The Eaglet" tells the heartwarming story of Jeffrey, a frail twin who transforms from a sickly, overshadowed child into a confident boy who learns to stand up for himself and his sister, proving that sometimes challenging circumstances can forge the strongest character.
And Daddy Would Probably Cry (Susan)
When five-year-old Susan threatens to run away after a fight with her sister, her mother realizes that sometimes a packed suitcase is really just a plea for reassurance and special attention.