New England Clam Chowder Recipe by Tasty

Name: New England Clam Chowder Recipe by Tasty
Ingredients: 4 oz bacon, 4 slices, chopped; 2 cups onion, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup carrot, diced; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cans minced clam, with juice; 1 ½ cups chicken stock; 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 bay leaf; oyster cracker, for garnish