I think the consensus is that it will be harder than if you stayed employed, and you will have to work harder at selling yourself than if you were 30, and you will have to find a workplace where ageism isn't a problem and the employees are progressive and open-minded... but yes, it can happen.

On the contrary, the 40 somethings I see around me (and I'm one of them, so yes I'm biased) generally have better judgment, better instincts, better communication and diplomacy skills, and more perspective, all of which come from experience and having more years under their belt.

Clap, clap, clap! I think private industry (and the feds) are realizing they will thrive with a diverse workforce, rather than this either/or approach. I say go for it, the water will be fine when you jump back in - of course I have been and always will be the "glass half full" kinda girl...

Remember it could take a year or so to find a job so I'd start looking long before I was actually hoping to start. You can look for work and get kids settled at the same time.