Pacific Northwest Razor Clam Chowder

Name: Pacific Northwest Razor Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 2-3 can(s) chopped clams with juice (i use 1 limit of razor clams (15) that have been frozen and thawed; 6 - small red potatoes, chopped; 1/2 pound(s) applewood smoked bacon, sliced; 3 - shallots, chopped; 5 - celery stalks with leaves, chopped; 4 clove(s) garlic, minced; 1-8 ounce(s) brick of reduced fat cream cheese; 1/4 cup(s) butter; 5 cup(s) whole milk; 1/2 pint(s) heavy cream (optional); 2 teaspoon(s) fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoon(s) fresh italian flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon(s) fresh chives, minced; 2 dash(es) tabasco sauce; 1 pinch(es) crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup(s) instant potato flakes; 1 pinch(es) pink himalayan sea salt; 1 pinch(es) coarsely ground black pepper