From Malcolm's letter on the previous page:
In 1998, Laura established The Biggest Job program, a parenting workshop that evolved into the book The Biggest Job We'll Ever Have (Scribner, 2002). In recent years, Laura has consulted with schools, businesses, organizations, and communities, reaching thousands of parents with the Hyde message of family-based character education. Her efforts to affect the parenting culture in this country have been recognized through such honors as Maine's Mother of the Year Award (1998) and the 2005 Maine Media Women President's Award.
How is that possible? Your oldest kid needs to be at least 18 for that award.
http://www.americanmothers.org/node/4
this looks like descripton for older women:
Nominees for this recognition are sought yearly on the state level with recommendations coming from the mother's contacts such as church groups, choral groups, PTA organizations, local businesses, etc. Nominees are well-respected, devoted mothers who interact in a positive manner on a family, spiritual, community, and civic basis. Each State Mother of the Year attends the National Convention where the AMI National Mother of the Year is selected.
Qualifications for State Mother of the Year®
* Have been married to her husband, a man, in a legal ceremony.
* Be a mother of one or more children.
Her oldest child must be over 18 years old by Mother's Day of the year in which she will serve as Mother of the Year. *
Have proven to be a successful mother as evidenced by her child(ren)'s accomplishments. * Be able to represent American Mothers, Inc.® using her mothering experience.
* Be an active member of a faith-based organization.
* Be an active participant in community, state, national or international activities.
* Be a member in good standing of American Mothers, Inc.® by February 20 of the year for which she is nominated and be willing to participate in AMI activities and support its goals as defined by its mission statement.
* Be able to complete the required portfolio.
The State Mother of the Year becomes a role model and spokesperson for motherhood as well as an ambassador for American Mothers, Inc.®