Merwin's Shrimp Gumbo

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1/4 inch rounds
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 (4 pound) chicken, cut into parts
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 2/3 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 pounds medium shrimp - peeled and deveined
• 8 cups water
• salt to taste
• ground black pepper to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• file powder