SMOKED HAM, POTATO, AND CORN CHOWDER

Ingredients:

1 cup diced smoked ham

4 cups peeled and diced potatoes

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup diced carrots

2 cloves minced garlic

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn

1 can (15 ounces) drained whole kernel corn

2 cups milk

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons butter

Chopped fresh parsley for optional garnish