Asparagus Thyme Garlic Soup w Parmesan Croutons

Name: Asparagus, Thyme & Garlic Soup w/ Parmesan Croutons
Ingredients: For the Asparagus Soup:; 1 bunch asparagus (about 28 spears); 2 cloves garlic -- crushed; Sea Salt; Fresh thyme (9 sprigs plus more for garnish); Parmesan Croutons (see recipe below); Olive oil; 1 cup chicken stock (homemade or I like Wolfgang Puck’s organic); ¼ cup dry white wine; For the Parmesan Croutons:; 1 round rustic bread (about 5” in diameter); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 3 Tbs. fresh grated parmesan; salt; fresh ground pepper