Wild Mushroom and Herb Chowder

Name: Wild Mushroom and Herb Chowder
Ingredients: 4 strips thick cut bacon, cut into small chunks; 1 large leek, cleaned well and chopped; 3 stalks celery, chopped; 3 medium carrots, chopped; 2 large cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary; 1 bay leaf; 1/3 cup dry sherry; 4 cups chicken, turkey or beef broth; 1 lb baby gold potatoes; 1 1/2 lbs wild mushrooms (any combination); 1/2 cup half & half or heavy cream; Salt & pepper to taste (will depend on the saltiness of your bacon and broth); Chives, for garnish