Like Ian, I can agree that making plans these days is almost impossible. Everyones calender is booked up for months in advance. We all live like idiots, doing too much, have too less time to enjoy the real important things.
A couple of weeks ago, we were invited for 3 parties at one night. That's crazy! You don't enjoy yourself this way either. Running from one to another, having no time at all.
@ Waterlineman: this time my handbag came back with me to Holland!
Don't worry, it's not about the irish. I like the irish and was unlucky that day last year. Actually I think the Irish are far more polite and nice than the average in Holland.