Place potatoes, water, garlic, bay leaf and salt in slow cooker.  Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until potatoes are tender.  Drain potatoes and discard the bay leaf and garlic cloves.  Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork.  Stir in the butter and buttermilk.  Stir in the chives and salt and pepper to taste.  Makes 6-8 servings (double for Thanksgiving dinner and place in a large slow cooker 6-8 quart)