2 slices turkey bacon ((can use regular bacon, if desired))
1 cup chopped onion
¾ cup chopped celery
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
1 medium garlic clove, (minced)
1 pound chopped fresh or canned clams, undrained
2½ cups peeled and diced potato ((white or red))
Two 8-ounce bottles clam juice
1 whole bay leaf
1½ cups skim milk
¼ cup all purpose flour