Choose specific categories and sub-categories

I have read through the forums, and it is hard in particular with the deprecated functions list_cats and wp_list_cats to sort through what information is relevant with wp_list_categories function now.

I want to feed arguments into wp_list_categories that will allow me to choose specific categories and sub categories. I have read through the
codex on this function extensively, and I can pick and choose my categories. But what if I want to say for each of these categories, (include=63,62,59,82), I also want to display their sub categories. The child_of argument only allows me to display the subcategories but not the main categories above them anymore.

I would like to keep things dynamic, and use the “count” feature, but right now I feel like my only option is to hand code the menu manually.

Does anyone have suggestions on how to use this function, or some other solution that works? Most plugins that did some sort of category management seem to use WordPress 2.3 prior. It is really new, I know, but still frustrating.