Summer Corn Chowder Recipe

Name: Summer Corn Chowder Recipe
Ingredients: 8 ears fresh sweet yellow corn, husked and silks removed and kernels cut from cob; 3 Tbsp butter; 5 slices bacon, cut into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces; 1 medium yellow onion chopped (1 1/2 cups); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 clove garlic, minced; 5 cups water; 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup half and half; 1 Tbsp honey; 2 – 3 Tbsp chopped fresh chives; Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)