New England Clam Chowder

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