So, what is missing?

Kahlil Gibran defines it as "spiritual affinity". It's hidden element of chemistry. It's when two beings meet and connect on a deeper level. It can only be felt in heart and soul. It's about friendship, respect, humor and feelings of warmth and contentment that come when you are in his/her presence.

People often report finding one without other. This is understandably a cause of great frustration and confusion about whom should we choose and why. In order to understand this better, it is helpful to know how and when each facet of chemistry occurs.

Physical attraction (or lust) generally begins during our first contact with someone. It can DEVELOP into something more over time, yet some pull is there from beginning. The chemical that results from this attraction (and intensifies it) is phenyl ethylamine - or PEA. It is a naturally occurring substance in brain. Essentially, it is a natural amphetamine. It stimulates us and increases both physical and emotional energy. The attraction causes us to produce more PEA, which results in those dizzying feelings associated with romantic love. Another substance that is released by PEA is dopamine. This chemical increases a desire to be physically close and intimately connected.

When these chemicals are being secreted in larger doses, they send signals from brain to other organs of body. If you wonder why you or someone is attracted to "wrong" person, it may be because you are high on physical response to these substances, which overwhelm your ability to use your head and exercise "good judgment and common sense".

"Spiritual affinity" develops over time and repeated contact. When these feelings begin to emerge, brain produces endorphins. These are more like morphine and result in an increased sense of calm that reduces anxiety and helps to build attachment. As relationships move into this phase they are characterized by more comfort, commitment and friendship.

Generally speaking, all "soul mate relationships" require at least some measure of each of these. The important thing to remember is that they come in stages, which is not to say that physical attraction passes as one moves into a deeper connection. However, it changes. We cannot sustain those intense emotions as we travel down road to commitment and a shared life. However, in healthy relationships those moments of intensity can and do occur for brief intervals at intermittent times.

Remember not to confuse great sex or deep friendship with romantic love. Instead, look for a measure of both of these in your feelings for another. For then you have ingredients that lasting love is made from.

5.Don’t let your pet eat all gifts that are presented!

The houseguest from hell, I brought homemade dog biscuits for my relative’s Labs, which they duly ate … and we were all up all night as dogs struggled with fulminating diarrhea.

6.If you animal is excitable, soothe him or her, or remove them if necessary, giving them a special place in house where they can have quiet time.

7.Protect your animal from young children.

They can poke eyes, pull ears, plop down on stomachs, beat their backs with toys, and generally provoke gentlest of dogs.

8.Guard against escapes!

Weejums who lived with us for a while, was always looking for his chance to escape, and holidays were most exciting time of year for little rascal. Oh opportunities! If you have such a knave in your house, make sure they have their tags, and explain to kids and to houseguests, to please take care about front door.

9. Talk to your houseguests, who are more under your “control,” and keep your eye out for your other guests.

Or your pet companion may end up with an injured tail and bad memories like Muff Tuff, who was sleeping near rocking chair; or a temporarily injured paw like Stan-the-Man, who got stepped on by someone wearing bifocals. 10.Talk to your animal companion – with soothing tones when needed, but also clear commands, so they know rules still apply.

Use visual “communication” as well, as your animal companion is deeply attuned to you.

BOTTOM LINE: You’re busier and preoccupied, things change, it’s a good time to stop and think, for safety of your animal companion. They’re counting on you!