I have known of fellow consultants with small children who used a webcam to keep in contact with their families while out of town, so that might be an option for you to consider.
As far as flying cross-country on Friday then back on Monday, I had a West Coast engagement that required 3 legs from the client site to my home city. I came home every other weekend on Thursday and went back on Monday. I would only consider making the trip every week if the flights were direct or only required one connection.
I don't have a spouse or small children at home, so my reasons to come home are not as compelling as yours may be.