New England Clam Chowder

Name: New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 2 (6.5 oz) cans Chicken of the Sea® Chopped Clams, with juice; 2 Tablespoons butter; 1 cup yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 medium onion); 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or dill or 1/4 teaspoon dried; 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups bottled clam juice; 1 lb. russet potatoes (about 2 medium), peeled and cut into medium sized cubes; 1/3 cup heavy cream; salt, to taste; freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional bacon crumbles, for topping