Grandma's Mashed Potatoes

4 lbs potatoes (peeled and cut into quarters)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 cups heavy cream
3 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp chopped chives

Put potatoes into a large pot, add bay leaf, 2 Tbs salt, and cover with cold water.  Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.  Drain them well and remove the bay leaf.  Heat the cream and butter in a small saucepan.  Mash the potatoes with a masher.  Add the hot cream and season with salt and pepper.  Stir in chives before serving.