i will not use the words i yell at the computer,i'm to much of a gentleman for that!!! one word for a basset that is tough, but i guess i'll have to go with FRIEND. if your feeling down and have the blues they can some how sense this and pick you up. when your mad at them they make you forget why you were mad in the first place. they share our memories,we always remember when we were hunting with them and who was with us and where we were who shot,who missed,what the weather was like and sharing your lunch with your "Friend" both human and canine. Yep i think that "FRIEND" can sum it all up for me. oh and i almost for got,yes i will be at the Nationals,the field trials only,instead of going up to the hunt test the wife and kids and myself will be goig to Gettysburg Park and check that piece of history out.