Creamy Corn Chowder

INGREDIENTS

• 6 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 3 medium red potatoes, diced
• 1 (1 lb.) bag frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup half-and-half