How to meet up with friends [View all]

When I am planning to meet with friends, I notice the same conversation about plans. We decide we're going to go. Then we figure out what day, then what time and where. But almost every time, the conversation has phrases such as, "I don't care.: "It's up to you." And other deflections. Most of the people I meet have things on their schedule, but I am flexible, so I ask them what time and day is better for them. I still get the same phrases, and in order to get it all settled, I'll pick a time and day. Then we work on where we will go. I will eat anything, anywhere. I don't go out much, though, and most of the other people I know go out more often. In the case of the place, I would like someone who is out and about more than I am to make suggestions. I end up feeling like I have been put in charge, and make the choices.

Is this kind of back and forth normal? Can I do anything to make the planning a little easier? I'm retired, but I feel like every conversation about meeting up is like this. As I write, I thought that I can at least say, "Well, I picked last time. It's your turn."