cook onion in butter over med. heat until translucent. add garlic. stir in flour, then add stock. add in carrots & celery & season with salt & pepper. heat through & stir in milk. place potatoes & bay leaf in slow cooker with mixture. cook on low for 8 hrs. or high for 4-5 hrs.

puree 4 c. of soup & stir back in. stir in cheese & bacon.