Place navy beans in pot and add 3 c.water. Bring to a boil. Boil uncovered for 10 minutes, and drain. Meanwhile, combine vegetables, herbs and tabasco and put into crockpot. Stir in drained beans and 4 c. water. Place ham hocks or chicken on top of beans. Cover; cook on low heat setting for 10-12 hours or high for 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 hours. Before serving, remove ham hocks or chicken from crockpot. Pull meat apart and return meat to soup. Leftovers will freeze well.