New England Clam Chowder

Name: New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 2 slices bacon (cut into half inch pieces); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 tsp dried thyme leaves; 3 medium potatoes (peeled, cut into 1/2 inch pieces); 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth); 2 bay leaves; 4 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams (drained, juice reserved); 1/2 cup dry instant potatoes; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 (8 oz) bottle clam juice; 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half & half); 1 tsp dried parsley; salt and pepper to taste