New England Clam Chowder

Name: New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon (diced into small pieces); 2 tablespoons butter; ¾ cup carrot (sliced, about 2 large carrots); ¾ cup celery (diced, about 2 stalks)); ¾ cup onion (finely diced); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (minced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups chicken broth (unsalted); 2 cups potato (diced); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 bay leaf; 13 ounces chopped clams ((2) 6.5 ounce cans); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)