That really sucks! So many people I worked with either did a great job some of the time - like this guy - or a consistant crappy job. Either way, preferential treatment seems to always be givin to those half-assed workers. I think people will walk all over you when there is no repercussions for their actions. You can't get mad at this guy for giving you amazing results once in a while instead of everyday like you had the right to expect from him - you let him know it was ok not to by offering him special options that weren't given to the other employees. An off day every once in a while is also to be expected - we are only human, but it's those who tough it out through those times who deserve the break when they reach an unfortunate obsticle in their life. You know, there is always a college kid out there you knows those cutting-edge technologies or is willing to learn. And please remember those employees who give it their all everyday... and let the know you appreciate it!!