i was a commuter at the regional level in a similar situation. 2 kids, fo pay and commuting..sometimes a two legger. it can be tough to be away but as you gain seniority, the schedules will get better and so will the commuting. no doubt that commuting sux though. is there a problem with the wifey/baby moving to domicile? i convinced mine after 3 years and life was great. good luck brutha..