A farmer stopped by the local mechanic’s shop to get his truck repaired.
Since the work would take a while, he decided to walk home.
On the way, he stopped at the hardware store and bought a bucket and a gallon of paint. Then he visited the feed store and picked up two chickens and a goose.
As he stood outside, he realized he had no idea how to carry everything at once.
Just then, an elderly woman walked up to him.
Woman:
“Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to 1603 Mockingbird Lane? I think I’m lost.”
Farmer:
“You’re in luck. My farm is right near that house. I’d be happy to walk you there, but I don’t know how to carry all this.”
Woman:
“Why don’t you put the paint inside the bucket, carry the bucket in one hand, tuck a chicken under each arm, and carry the goose in your other hand?”
Farmer:
“That’s a great idea. Thank you!”
As they walked together, the farmer said,
Farmer:
“Let’s take this shortcut through the alley. It’ll save us some time.”
The woman looked at him carefully.
Woman:
“I’m an old widow with no one around to help me. How do I know you won’t try to corner me in that alley and steal a kiss?”
The farmer laughed.
Farmer:
“Goodness! I’m carrying a bucket, a gallon of paint, two chickens, and a goose. How could I possibly do that?”
The woman smiled and replied,
Woman:
“Set the goose down, cover him with the bucket, put the paint on top of the bucket… and I’ll hold the chickens.”