Tory: What do you hear from employers about this matter? Any insight on what they're thinking and where they're coming from when they decide to hire (or not) moms trying to make a comeback? Certain questions are illegal or ethically off limits for them (age, whether or not you plan to have more children, how you balance home/work). Is there a good way to allay their fears or address their concerns head-on?

My advice to you is to focus on what you have to offer.  Ask yourself, 1)Do I really want this job 2)what skills can I bring to this job 3) which ones do I not have and how do I respond to these lack of skills.  I just secured a good job after struggling to get back in after six years.  I was prepared and enthusiastic - I answered all the questions I thought they would bring up like gaps in employment and lack of industry experience.  I prepared a brag book of everyhing I was proud I had accomplished.  You have to believe in what you have to offer and not feel bad for leaving the workforce.  It took me 6 years to figure that out and be prould of who I was and my skills.  I sold myself.  I was told I had the best presentation skills of anybody they had seen!!!!  It was totally empowering.

Be candid.  Most times they want to know that you're really serious about coming back and that you won't have second thoughts two weeks into it.  Without getting into too much personal stuff, be firm that you have all of your personal needs in order to pave the way for your professional success.  Keep the conversation focused on how committed you are and why you'd be an asset.