I always kind of dreaded August 1st, when I was growing up,
because although there was more than a month left of summer vacation,
I just figured, “well this is it. Here’s August. And then its
September and that’s when
school starts, so we’re basically done with summer…” On August 1st!
Now that I am…uh-hmm..older, I see things a little differently and
I understand how families crave for the one or two weeks at the end of August to
get some R&R. I also see now, that for the parents, its really not a vacation, but
kind of like running a camp for your kid- a very fun camp of course- one where
grown ups get to play in the sand and run in the water and take out
door showers and eat sandwiches in soaking wet bathing suits, etc etc.
The McIntyre’s went to The Hamptons this year. (You kind of have to
say that with your jaw clenched and barely opening your mouth- “The Hamptons.”)
Being a Cape Cod guy, I was always pretty much hatin’ on the Hamptons.
It’s like the Yankees-Red Sox thing… ya gotta represent. I had been
out to that part of Long Island, NY just once before, many years ago
and it was mostly for “the scene” and the night life- I lasted about
3 days. Give me Hyannis anyday I thought. But we had a chance to go
out there this summer, when a family friend graciously offered us
her house. And so out we went. LAX to JFK 7 am flight with the
Griffster (21 months) and my preggers wifey. Griffin definitely
knows how to travel- he’s got some experience in that department. He
was a gem. From JFK to The Hamptons its another 2 hours in the car.
Again Griff slept the whole way, so we were lucky. When we got there
we were so excited to see our “little cottage”.
It had a beautiful pool and a little herb garden and a huge elm tree
that shaded a gorgeouslawn and patio. It was a very special spot. The house was so quaint
and pretty. When we first arrived we saw all the windows were open,
letting in the breeze. It was good to feel the humidity of the east
coast again. I kind of enjoyed sleeping in that kind of weather. 3
days later we discovered that the house had central air.
The beaches there were beautiful. We got a few really nice days,
before Hurricane Bill pretty much closed the beaches- we went that
day anyway, just to check out the waves.We had ice cream almost everyday and Griffin had his fist steamed
mussel. And to boot, he loved my monk fish… I guess its in his
blood. We did a lot of reading (The Great Gatsby) while he napped
and a lot of snacking too. Good times alll and all and so I have
changed my opinion of The Hamptons. I’m over my hatin’ and I look
forward to participatin’ again there someday.
After our week on L.I., we drove up to Boston. By the way, the
“upper finger” of eastern Long Island is lovely as well- very
“heartland” filled with farms and farm-stands. It couldn’t have
seemed farther away from the big city. On the way up to Boston we
caught a ferry that took us direct to New London, Connecticut. We
were comfortably early and first in line for the next ferry, so we
grabbed some lunch at the snack bar. We enjoyed ourselves so much
that we lost track of the time and thank God someone asked if we
were in the Ford with Michigan plates (rental). I jumped up and ran
for it. We were THE last car on. Phew… It was a pleasant ride and
the ferry cut 2 hours out of the trip- key when ya got a little guy
along for the ride.
Boston was and is always a must when you’re back east. Gotta do it.
Aunts gotta see Griff, Griff gotta see his cousins. Joe Mac gotta
see his boys. We had a really nice time at the newly renovated
Boston Children’s Museum. I went there as a kid and its cool to take
the next generation there. Afterward, we all- cousins, aunts- sat
outside by the water on a windy sunny day and had lunch and talked
about all kinds of stuff. Never a dull moment with the Macs and all
those kiddies.
When we were the ted Kennedy passed away. We all knew it was
coming, but it hits you when it finally happens. If you were an Irish
Catholic kid from Boston, you were intrinsically tied to the Kennedys.
I think I was fortunate to lived during his time. Much has been
written about his highs and lows, his faults and his charm. He had
become a bit of a symbol for redemtion in his later years. I was lucky
enough to have met him on more than one occasion. My father is in the
labor movement and worked with him throughout the years. My brother
and I always thought that was pretty cool. I saw Senator Kennedy and
JFK. Jr. at the first Clinton Inauguration and he said some nice words
about the New Kids. He was, like his colleagues said, very charming
with a great sense of humor. We know the story and place of his
brothers, but I feel he ended this dramatic saga that is The Kennedys
in a very human way. His funeral mass was in Roxbury, MA, what
Bostonians refer to as Mission Hill, at Mission Church where my
parents were married and my grand-father played the organ as a young
boy. I guess what I’m getting at is the connection I had to his
passing. It was a solemn moment for many in Massachusetts. As a friend
from New York said, ‘when something like that happens in Boston it
always feels like a small town affair.’ And those few days epitomized
that sentiment.
After a too short stay in Boston, I went up to Vermont to be in one
of my best friend’s wedding. Unfortunately, my wife had a wedding on
the same day back in New York, so I was riding solo, but there was
quite the crowd from JP going up for the big shindig. All the rugged
Vermonters (is that what they call them?) were testing the city kids
to see what they were made of and we consistently represented. They
thought we might have been sissies but we “showed up.” All kidding
aside they were great hosts and a ton of fun with a great sense of
humor. A very cool proud small town. It was great to get away up
there. My friend is a good man and he married a beautiful and good
woman.
Day after the wedding I was on a 6 am flight to meet Barrett and
Griffin at JFK to go back to LaLa Land. The flight wasn’t as smooth
as we would have hoped at first. Ya know when you are on a flight
and there is a baby screaming his head off and you swear you know
the answer of how to quiet him. And everyone has an idea of how to
shut that kid up. Well, that was my kid this time. Griffin has put
on some serious miles in his 21 months and is as cool as the other
side of the pillow. We often get compliments when we land. Not this
time! He was just a little too tuckered out and had to basically
scream himself to sleep. And that’s sort of what he did. THANK
GAAAWD!!! The other passengers were really nice except for the guy
in front of us. He kept giving us dirty looks. Funny, cuz his wife
was really nice and talked about how it happened to her with her
baby, and how she got mean looks and felt so bad. Guess she didn’t
catch her hubby throwing darts at us.
But we made it and all was well in Los Angeles…sort of. We came
home to the fires.
Now none of these fires are at all close to where I live near
Hollywood, but when you see it on the news you think L.A. is
burning. The danger of your house burning down is a sad part of
living out in the hills of southern California. It seems like there
is a “fire season” out here. The Fire Fighters out here do an
amazingly heroic job to save homes and lives.
The skies are dark and gray and hazy for weeks over all of Los
Angeles and the air quality, not great to begin with here, is really
bad. And the ash travels all the way, 30-40 miles, to settle on your
car and your patio furniture. A small price of course compared to
the heart ache of so many, but just trying to paint the picture.
It does sort of feel like you are breathing in the fires of hell out
here. Backing up all those crazy cliches about selling your soul out
here to make it big. So many of us talk about moving back home,
wherever that is. To be back with family and friends and get away
from the smog and the fires and the earthquakes and the high cost of
living. But then the fires die down and the smog clears and the sun
comes out and suddenly there’s no place you’d rather be. For all my
talk against L.A., it has been very very good to me. This is where
my livelihood is right now. This is where almost everyone I want to
work with lives. This is where the action is. So although a cavetch,
I look to L.A. for more. I stop and think of how I am consistently
inspired here to create. I have been extra lucky as of late. I am
knee deep in an album- somewhere between an LP and an EP. The music
is fresh and real and raw and it excites me. It gives me butterflies
to think of it giving you butterflies. Its coming soon. I’m
planning to keep you guys busy til that next
cruise 
Let’s get this!
-jm
September 10th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Did that title bring you back to your school days and writing summer vacation reports? :0)
September 10th, 2009 at 10:41 am
Well written! Thank you for sharing that with us. Hugs to you and your littel family!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Thank you so much for sharing your life with us. Sounds like you had a fantastic August. Thought for a second you had driven right past my house, but you caught the ferry and bypassed me here in Fairfield county. I’ll just have to see you when you come through on your solo album tour (cause that’s going to happen, right?).
For those of us who only had a 45 of Beat It and then moved right on to cassettes, what the heck does “between an EP and an LP” mean??
Lots of love,
Katie
xoxoxo
p.s. I promise not to give mean looks to the parents of the next screaming baby I see on an airplane.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Sounds like a funfilled vacay! Nothing like family time!
Can’t wait to hear the new music and see you in May! x
The UK misses you!
Steph x
September 10th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Thank’s for this! I love it…Say hi to your family…xoxo
Much Love,
Dian
Jakarta-Indonesia
September 10th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Aw, Joe! It’s been such a wild and crazy ride!! I can’t wait to see where the next turn takes us!!!
Thank you for coming back into our lives!
~SGT Hottie McPlaid (aka Kim)
September 10th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Wow, that is some blog you wrote
Thank you for sharing your journey with us, you are the best! Can’t wait to hear your music!
Hope Barrett’s doing great!
Love from Holland
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Wow seems like you had a brilliant time. That explains the drop in number of tweets. I’m happy that you had a fab holiday….you so deserved it.
Look forward to your tweets.
Noreen (Nolicious)
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Glad to know you enjoyed your vacation…and made it home safely! We miss you and can’t wait to hear your new album!!! Love you!
Lisa
http://www.twitter.com/cherrylicious1
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
JOE MAC´S DIARY!!!!! THANK YOU A LOT FOR SHARING YOUR SUMMER EXPERIENCE AND I CAN´T WAIT FOR THOSE BUTTERFLIES TO COME AND GET ME =)
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Awwww love love loved reading this Joe. Thank you for sharing your summer story with all the emotions, sentiments and humor. Love ya and miss you.
-Brandie (@BTBTB_25)
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
It was such a PLEASURE to meet u. My dreams FINALLY came true when I met all of u guys. Luv u & I can’t wait til u guys go back on the road. COME TO DETROIT!!!!!
~MIKA~
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Wow… sounds like it was a good thing you got that little bit of relaxation in before the craziness of travel sets in. I’m happy you had a great vacation and so freakin excited about your album.
xoxo
Chris
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Thanks for sharing. Sounds like a great vacation. Take care!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
glad to hear you had some great time with you family and friends. can’t wait what more you have in store for us… since the the cruise is still long ways to go …
September 10th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Thanks for keeping us posted on what you have been up to! It’s great to hear from you! I can’t wait for more concerts and appearances! So glad you guys have come back into our lives!!!!!
Love you loads,
Staci
September 10th, 2009 at 10:44 am
Oh My GOD…!!! I’m glad that you had a good time… I was looking for you…
NKALERT Missing: Since 9/3/09, @joeymcintyre, beautiful blue eyes, amazing voice, incredible smile. Please return to @blozano77!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:44 am
Thanks for the summary =)……can`t wait to hear the new stuff =)…
….so let`s get this …also on org? =)
Love from Germany & xoxo
TinchenFFM
September 10th, 2009 at 10:44 am
Thanks for sharing Joe! Glad you had a nice vacation!! Can’t wait for your album!!!
Love Ya,
Chaz
September 10th, 2009 at 10:45 am
thank you Joey for sharing all that with u dont have to but u do..it makes us feel apart of your life..Thanks and i love you
September 10th, 2009 at 10:45 am
congrats to you and mrs. mcintyre on you awaiting of another baby!! thats very exciting!!! you august sounded so peaceful and perfect!! im very happy you had time to relax! looking foward to seeing you on the cruise! xoxolisa marie
September 10th, 2009 at 10:45 am
I don’t know why blogs from the NK make me cry but they do. I am one of those “rugged” Vermonters. Glad you love my home state. I miss it EVERYDAY. What town where you in? Just curious…
Glad you enjoyed your time in the Hamptons…never been there myself but I hear it is beautiful. As a fellow New Englander I totally get your love for the Cape. One of my best friends lives in Chatham. I loved to go visit her.
I have great memories of the Children’s Museum. They have redone it? Next time I am in Boston I will have to take my best friends daughters. I always had fun there when I was a kid! My favorite part was the water toys.
Sounds like you had a wonderful vacation….we love you Joe and thanks for the update!!
Robin
Dogwalker73
Lansing, MI
Formally Burlington, Vermont
September 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
Welcome back Joet and family. At least u travelled safetly and nothing happened to ur house. Unfortunatly, Im not going on the cruise for 2010, as I went this year. I hope u guys at least come out once next year just a little token that we miss u guys. So enjoy ur time of and dont forget the people who aren’t crusing next year. Love to your whole family. Yvette Jones-Chung
September 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
You really have a gift with words. Every time I read your blogs I feel like I’m reading some intro to a wonderful novel and I want to sit in my favorite chair, wrap myself up in a blanket and absorb the words into my mind. Loved the part about airplane ride back.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
Looking forward to the butterflies Joe! And all us parents out there totally know what you went through with the Griffster as you call him
He is just being a toddler. No harm, no foul. The guy giving darts was a jerk though!
Love you!
XOXOXOXOXOXOX
Malina aka anilam18
September 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
Joey,
Thank you for sharing your summer vacation with us! It sounds like you all had a blast! Love to you all!
Love, Peace, Hugs & Kisses Always,
Jenny
September 10th, 2009 at 10:47 am
You’re so sweet to share all this with us. And after all that…you know what got me the most was that last little bit about a new album to give us butterflies. Excuse me while I SQUEAL!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Wow, I am truely overwhelmed at how much of your life you choose to share with us!! From the bottom of my heart I thank you, your wife,Griffin,& the little guy on the way!! I am so glad you were able to enjoy so much time with your family, nothing is better!!!
As far as what is to come, I know that we share in your excitement!! I can’t wait to hear it, & share it with all I know!!
Much Love, Leslie XOXO
September 10th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Thanks for giving us some insight into your summer vacation. It was awesome! As a writer, I love the way you write
Can’t wait to hear your new music!! I love you 
September 10th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Joe… I’m so glad to hear you had such a good time out in the Hamptons! I have family in Boston, and it’s a city that I have grown to love, it’s like no other and I LOVE it!
The fires here in Alaska were pretty bad too. I had to clean the screens on our windows the other day, it was disgusting! So I feel ya with the ask and dust on windowsills and cars, it was horrible here. Kids couldn’t go to football practice cause the air quality was so bad and being on an Air Force Base, you get used to seeing the jets here and there, and they weren’t even flying, nor could you see them parked on the flightline. It was bad.
I too had a simular experience with my son on the last trip home from Mass. They have Ben & Jerry’s ice cream in First class
FYI 
Cherry Garcia was the charm for my son!
I love ya Joe, can’t wait to see what’s in store for a girl that can’t afford to go on the cruise
I want to go so bad, but am super happy for those who do get to go! Make sure you post lost of pics!
Love to All! From the lone Alaskan girl
Erika
September 10th, 2009 at 10:48 am
“It gives me butterflies to think of it giving you butterflies”
Love it!!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:48 am
Wow sounds like an amazing vacation. Can my kids tag along next year on your trip? :).
I can imagine how difficult that flight home must have been for you guys. I hate when your kid is crying and there really is nothing you can do about it and yet everyone seems to stare. As if they have never gone through this themselves. My kids are 2 and almost 5 and I never look at any parent when their kid is acting up. I know what it feels like to be stared at and feel like you are being judged. we have only flown once with our kids and it was only a 3 hour flight to Seattle from Long Beach. I am dreading our flight to New Jersey next spring for a wedding. Any tips??????
Can’t wait to hear your new music!!!!!
Love always,
Erica
September 10th, 2009 at 10:48 am
I always love the stories you ‘paint’… Puts me right in the moment. : )
The vacation sounds just heavenly.. I am sure after the intensity of the past 18 months or so… it was as welcome as it was well deserved!
So happy that you took a moment or two to fill in your loyal supporters, we love hearing from You!
You keep working on that new music and we will all simply wait to hear it! Will it be out in time to put it on my Santa I must have list?? ; )
Take good care of the Family… it won’t be long now until the “Grif-ster” becomes a big brother… just enough time left to appreciate the wonders of having only one.. lol!
Take care JoeMac! We ♥ You!
damsel xo
September 10th, 2009 at 10:49 am
Joey Joe, My popsicl
Thank you for sharing that with us! I am so excited to hear your new album and wish you and the Mac fam the best with your upcoming arrival!
Long Live the Block,
Diane
September 10th, 2009 at 10:49 am
Joe -
When I read things like this I wonder how we got so lucky at such a young age to fall in love with a bunch of guys from Boston…and still be in love with them so many years later. At 11 years old I knew it was something special, and at 33…I still do! Thanks for sharing your life with us, even when you don’t have to…and I love that you do it so willingly! We are the luckiest fans in the world! I’m so grateful your family is willing to share you with us too! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! A MILLION times THANK YOU! You really are the best! And I mean that from the bottom of my heart!
Love you ALWAYS!
Andrea
PS SOLOJOEMAC…ACK! I can’t wait! GIDDY UP!
September 10th, 2009 at 10:50 am
“What I Did on My Summer Vacation” by Joe Mac. Yeah, that was fun to read. And YES, you BEST be keeping us busy from now until the next boat ride!
Maria
September 10th, 2009 at 10:50 am
Wow Mr. Joe!
You and your family have been busy bees. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us. Keep on doing your thing with working hard.It will pay off for you. I can’t wait to hear what you’ve been working on.Love to you and my best to your family. ~Shea
September 10th, 2009 at 10:50 am
Thanks for sharing your summer with us !
Can’t wait to hear what you have been creating:
It gives me butterflies to think of it giving you butterflies
Great line !!
Much love
Sharon
Amsterdam
September 10th, 2009 at 10:51 am
Awwwww the Griffster screamin himself to sleep, how precious!!! LOL
September 10th, 2009 at 10:52 am
Joey,
Thank you for this blog & for sharing what you & your familia did this summer! I’m glad you all had a terrific time going back east and seeing the rest of your family.
Personally, I’ve never been to the East Coast, but I do hope to visit there someday. Take care.
Lina
Sonoma County, CA
September 10th, 2009 at 10:55 am
Well, I guess this makes up for the lack of Tweets! I’m so glad you’ve had great memorable times with your family. You deserve it. You don’t have to share your family with us, but you do, and that makes you special to us. I may just have to make the east coast my vacation spot for next year. Sounds lovely.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:55 am
Joe,
Thank-you so much for sharing this with us!! I love reading about your adventures
I am so excited for your new music… I have butterflies already!! See you on the cruise JM!! Love you!! 
September 10th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Joe,
I always love your blogs! It’s like being there with you. I’m so glad the 3 of you had a great vacation, you deserve it! I can’t wait to hear the album! I feel so lucky to have the 5 of you back in my life and that you are all working so hard on projects that I get to enjoy, well that is surreal.
I just got back from a trip to see my family and it really was wonderful. Unfortunately we only get to see them once a year. This time was great because my cousin was there with his wife and their son whom we hadn’t met yet. What a great time. We drove for 14 hours round trip, not including the time spent driving around to see everyone, with my niece who is 19 months old. I was worried, but she was a dream. We also spent time at my dad’s property walking around and seeing his pond and hanging out listening to the deafening sounds of nature.
I had a great summer vacation and it definitely included time with you guys! Thanks for a great time in Tinley and in Indy. This will be a summer, and year, that I will remember forever!
Kisses and hugs and all my love to you, Barrett, Griffin, and the one in process. XOXO Carey @wicked12
September 10th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Hey Mr. Mac!
I’m glad you had such a good vacation with family and friends.
I’m not coming along on the cruise, but I’ll be there in spirit.
Just keep us occupied during the upcoming months with whatever you can come up with… solo album, new group album, vlogs, blogs and your happy, funny ass!
With this I also want to congratulate you, Barett and Griffin with the pregnancy, cuz I hadn’t had the chance to yet. Somewhere in December right? I’m due in November. I’m getting nervous already! I’m having a girl… you a second boy right? Hmmm.. let’s hook them up! Tweet me! LOL
Don’t be a stranger Mr. Mac!
Hugs, kisses and much love
Petra (@Pettles)
from SoHo (South of Holland *wink* remember Amsterdam?)
September 10th, 2009 at 11:03 am
That was a great blog, Joe. Sounds like you had a great time! Can’t wait to hear your new music. I’m really excited about everything you guys do! Love you much!
Lynda(@ILoveKnightWood)
September 10th, 2009 at 11:06 am
Dearest Joey,
Thank you so much for sharing your stories with us. I always look forward to anything new from you guys. This one was an absolute treat, coming from my FAVE new kid (and you’ve been my fave since I was 6 years old). Going through the blog, I could get a mental picture of everything you were telling us…..that’s what I like about it!:) I am glad you guys had fun! I am originally from Long Island, so I was excited when you mentioned it. I live in NC now and have for 15 years, but I would never change my childhood living on Long Island for anything. I do miss it because my family (aunts, uncles, cousins) are still there. Thanks for mentioning it. By the way, if you do read these replies, there is a huge gift coming for you, Barrett, Griffin, and the baby on the way, from my friend and I! I hope you will keep it for always and think of us! Thank you so much for writing us Joe! That’s what makes you all amazing…you keep in touch with us fans! We will always have a connection. I love you! I am one of your “million sistas” and have been that way since the beginning!
Love Always,
Tara (Greensboro, NC)
Loving The Block since 1986!
TWITTER: mcbridemcgrawfn
September 10th, 2009 at 11:06 am
Joe your vacation sounded amazing! Up here in British Columbia we have nasty fire seasons too….California lent us fire fighters this year and we were very happy. There is nothing quite like the smoke and ash is there? I left my windows open and ended up with a living room covered in a layer of ash…fun times
September 10th, 2009 at 11:07 am
Glad you had such a good vacation. Thanks for not forgetting about us. I’m sure Griff and his cousins had a blast at the museum. I love sitting out by the water there (and how it’s a pretty toddler proof area so they can run around and you don’t have to worry too much about where they are going).
I know all about the overtired kid on the plane thing. Griffin does seem like quite the trooper, but they all have their breaking points, he’s human. I’m glad he was finally able to fall asleep. I’m sure he woke up like a new kid (ha ha, I just realized that I said “new kid” LOL) I hope Barret is feeling well
September 10th, 2009 at 11:11 am
Hey, you’ve been a busy boy Mr Mac!
Glad you guys enjoyed your vacation. Sure Barrett needed it after touring round the states and Europe with you and the guys!
Looking forward to hearing the new music…lil Joe Mac set on the cruise??
Lots of love xxx
September 10th, 2009 at 11:13 am
Reading the title of your blog made me think of all the papers we would write after summer vacation. Thank you so much sharing! I loved it! I felt like I was right there on vacation with you. Especially having two little ones of my own, I can totally relate! I hate it when you become one of those parents in a situation you’ve always thought oh thank goodness that’s not me right now. But, makes you appreciate and understand when others are there. I can’t wait to see what you have in mind to keep us busy. And I LOVE that you get butterflies from our butterflies. That gives me more butterflies,LOL! Thank your family for sharing you with us. And thank you for sharing your beautiful family with us!
Hugs and Kisses
Michelle
@sweetchelle43
September 10th, 2009 at 11:16 am
omGAWD! had i known you were in New London, I would have TOTALLY crashed your vacay! OMGAWD!!!! but atleast we were that close!—I’m in Mystic
Anywhoo, that was a great book report on ‘how i spent my summer vacation’ the only thing missing was a trip to walt disney world…lol! but i guess disneyland is only a few blocks to ya there in LA.
September 10th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Wow, Joe,
reading this blog felt like reading the letter of an old friend.
I felt so much warmth coming from your words.
I felt so humbled by the fact that you trust us so much and tell us so much about your life. And I loved how you sprinkled in the occasional extravagant word.
I admit at the end there were tears in my eyes and that rarely happens.
Now this might be a girl’s thing, but… I have always been curious to g to the Hamptons ever sine I watched Sex and the City, so having you describe it made me want to go there even more.
Even though it was such a sad occasion I really loved reading what you wrote about Ted Kennedy.
The way you described Griffin’s trouble to go to sleep on the plane will make it easier for me to feel sorry for the parents next time I have to endure a crying baby a plane, looks like sometimes there is nothing you can do about it.
So, once again, thank you for this blog and thank you for showing me once more what a great guy you are.
Jelly
P.S. Your blog is a lot longer than Jon’s last one. Are you proud ?
September 10th, 2009 at 11:22 am
Thanks for sharing Joe!I work in the school setting, it’s not just the kiddos that get that feeling that August 1st brings.
I was especially happy to read that you plan on keeping us busy until the cruise. Hmmm what does that mean exactly?
I can sum up my summer vacation in one sentence. I traveled to six different states to see YOU and nkotb!
Love ya,
Your dreamfriend Brandie
September 10th, 2009 at 11:23 am
My god I thought Jon was bad, you can’t half write a speech! lol
f.a.o ktsummer: an EP is an extended player with only a few songs on it, an album has more so I think he means he’s more or less halfway through the number of songs he has done. He may just release an ep instead of an album who knows in the world of joe mac! lol
September 10th, 2009 at 11:34 am
You are an artist in every sense of the word. What a beautifully written account of your summer adventure. Thanks for sharing it with us. Can’t wait to see what you have in store for all of us.
Take care and god bless…
September 10th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Sounds like you have had a lovely break Joe, thanks for sharing with us. Love to you and your family.
Mandy
UK
xx
September 10th, 2009 at 11:36 am
Thanks for sharing Joe! Can’t wait to hear your music!!!!!!!!!
Lots of Love Lori
September 10th, 2009 at 11:38 am
Thanks for sharing your summer adventures with us! It was amazing for me to read and not picture you as a teen, now talking as a man. Guess we all have grown up, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Having kids is the best, and having them finally fall asleep on a plane after screaming… well that’s just heaven!
September 10th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Thanks so much for that heartfelt blog! Always great to hear from you and feel what you’ve been up to. I love the stories with wife and kid because it makes you human.
I am back to dreading school even though I’ve been out probably a little longer than you. But with 2 kids in school you get to see the other side of school. The side you didn’t even think about as a child. Helping them with homework, studying, getting clothes, shoes, snacks, folders, binders, jackets, everything together for the next day. Then of course the usual housework, work, chores you have to do already. Sorry, I don’t want it to sound like I’m complaining…just saying. Ya know, giving you something to look forward to :). Don’t know how my mother did it with 9 kids. Yes, we’re Catholic.
Thanks again Mr. Mac and family.
Sally
LONG LIVE THE BLOCK!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Great blog Joey, thank you!! =) I know New London, CT well, spent 4 years there going to the Coast Guard Academy! =) I am glad you had a wonderful time with the family!! Looking forward to your music!! =) Let’s Get This!!
September 10th, 2009 at 11:41 am
Joe,
My summer vacation story would include a particular Full Service tour, so I’ll spare you the details. So happy you had such an incredible vacation. Looking forward to the new music. Got the butterflies in a holding pattern ready for lots of new music!!
I’m sure Barrett & Griffin are thrilled to be settled back at home. Keep working on that music & preparing for the newest little Mac!!
Love you lots,
XOXO
Erin
September 10th, 2009 at 11:46 am
Thanks (once again) for letting us be apart of your world and your life. You are an inspiration…an amazing father, husband, entertainer, musician, and human being! Can’t wait to hear some Joe Mac music!! It’s been too long.
Whitney aka MsFantastick
September 10th, 2009 at 11:49 am
You’ve got such a knack for writing putting me right where you are (were). I guess it should’t surprise me since that’s how your music is, too…there’s really no difference I guess, I can just dance to one and not the other. Thank you for sharing your life, your feelings, and your family with us. One question, have you ever tried doing something and NOT been good at it? Please share, if so (but I doubt it).
Hugs to you and the family,
Amy
September 10th, 2009 at 11:53 am
Joe,
Bring it on, baby! take care of the little man and the wifey. Hope we stay very busy until the cruise…Even though I am not going. I will be waiting here in Ohio for you guys to return.
Thank you so much for letting us in on all of your adventures. You have to know how much your fans miss you when we don’t hear from you, but it is so nice to know that you were having such an amazing vacation. Isn’t it amazing how quickly we get so used to hearing from you when for so many years, there was no twitter or other way of connecting? I am so looking forward to hearing the new music that you have been working on. I am very anxious about it actually. Your voice is very soothing and exciting all at the same time and I just can’t seem to get enough.
Love always,
Erica
xoxoxoxo
~browneyes4nkotb~
September 10th, 2009 at 11:59 am
So glad your family had a wonderful vacation!!It’s so nice to keep us all posted.You have a wonderful family may god bless you all.Can’t wait to see you all again.Have had some NKOTB withdrawals symptoms a few times but I know that you all needed some rest.Love ya!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Glad you had a family vacation. Moments like that are precious! Glad to hear there is another album on the way! I love your work! Can’t wait for it! Love ya Joe!
September 10th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Thanks for sharing your vacation with us! I’m so happy you got a chance to spend some time with your family and friends. Sounds like everyone had a fantastic time.
Now get back to work on that album before these butterflies kill me!
lol
Love you! xoxo
September 10th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Wow Joe you sure had a lot to say, are you trying to beat Jons end of tour blog?
Im glad you have been able to enjoy yourself in your time off and I cant wait to hear your new stuff. You guys want to keep us busy until the next cruise (which I will be on) thats fine with me.
Cant wait to see what all of yawl have up your sleeves!
XOXO
Martina
September 10th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Dear Joe,
It sounds like you, Barrett, and Griffin had a lovely summer vacation this year. I’m glad to hear it! Your words were quite eloquent in this blog and you painted vivid images of your various experiences, making it even more enjoyable to read!
I loved the excerpts of this blog that shed light into your Boston Irish Catholic upbringing, your emotional connection to Cape Cod and the Kennedys (as well as to Mission Hill Church in Roxbury, MA), and how you represented Michigan in your rental car over the course of your vacation (since that is my home state)! LOL…..
I once asked you if you preferred the East Coast or the West Coast and you replied, “Definitely the East Coast!”. I appreciate that L.A. is where your livelihood is right now (as you mentioned), but I believe that your heart lies on the East Coast!
Along with my fellow “Bravehearts”, I eagerly await your upcoming album and am extremely excited to hear how you plan to keep us busy until the cruise next year!!
I can’t wait to see you again next May! Let’s get this!!
Love Ya,
Lindsay
(Twitter Name: “Imagine7″)
September 10th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Well we now all know that if things in L.A. do NOT work out, you can fall back on writing! Thanks so much for sharing a bit of your life with us and all the best to you and your family!
Julia
September 10th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
Joe, Glad you finally are getting some much-needed R&R. My son did the same thing on a flight once. I know the “daggers” you get and there’s nothing you can do. I look forward to the new album. Until then, my liveautograph.com video and Meet Joe Mac will have to keep me going. Take care!
September 10th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Oh, Congrats to you, Barrett and Griffin on your upcoming “new edition.”
September 10th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Thank you so much for sharing that with us!!! Glad you had a great summer with the familly, nothing beats that!! Great to hear from you x x x Can’t wait to hear the new music - wish I could say see you on the cruise - but I missed out on tickets
PLease come back to the UK for us?????!!!!!! x x x x x x x x x x
September 10th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Joe,
All I can say is, wow…..you have shared more than we deserve - thank you for being so generous with your time and for connecting with us once again. You will always have my love, respect, and support.
God’s Blessings Always,
Melanie
September 10th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. That’s really nice of you. Glad you had such a great time with your family and loved ones. All The Best, T.
September 10th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
Hello Joey ! Thanx for sharing the story of your vacation with us. Happy that you have some goods times. Wish you the best for the next baby to come and for the new music you’re making. See ya maybe in France in 2010.
September 10th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
WUAWWW THANK FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCE JOE
PEACE & LOVE
September 10th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Thanks Joe for sharing your summer with us
Nice to know The East End treated you well (as a former Long Islander, summers back home is what I miss and crave most.. the people, thats another story) and that everyone back in LA is safe. Hope your family is well and hope to see and hear you soon. You’re missed in the UK 
Love, Kerri
September 10th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
thanks for sharing your vacation memories, joe. im excited for the new music..lots of love to you and your family
September 10th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
LoI could listen to you talk forever.. You write so well.. Can’t wait to hear the new music.
September 10th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Joey, That’s a beautiful blog and I wish you all the best. *hugs all around*
love you always:
Lisa
September 10th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Joey McIntyre, You have been giving us butterflies for 20 years:) You could dress up in a cow costume and sing Old McDonald and we would still get butterflies… Ok, maybe not so much, but Griffin would love it:)… Anyway, Thanks for sharing. It is so cool to hear your stories of parenthood that most of us can relate with. I love those people that like to give dirty looks when your kid is misbehaving. Like you are enjoying it anymore than they are right? So glad you guys had a great vacation. Give Barrett and the Grifster a hug and kiss of appreciation for us. They are troopers for putting up with all of crazy fans. Life is Good having NKOTB back. As always… You are loved.
your friend in Louisiana
Mandy
September 10th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Thanks for Sharing Joe. You know you guys really spoil us by the amount that you all share with us. I really appeciate it. xx
September 10th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Thanks for sharing your holiday stories Joe!!!! So pleased you all had such a nice time!!!!! I’m soooooooo looking forward to hearing your new album!!! Hopefully we’ll not have to wait to long!!!! MASSIVE HUGS from across the pond!! We miss you HURRY BACK!!!!!!!! ;-D xXx AngelaGos77!!!!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Joey, thank you for sharing a piece of your summer with us! Sounds like you got some much needed rest! And to spend time with family and friends… it just don’t get much better! Traveling with a small child can have its ups and downs but over all the Griffster held is own! Although im not sure how us million aunts feel about anyone giving u guys dirty looks. LOL Can’t wait for whatever new sounds you have for us and as far as you keeping us busy til the cruise! oh hell yea! Bring it!
Thanks again Joey!! Much love to you and your wonderful family!!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
wow! so this is what u’ve been doing! im glad u n ur family had a good time! thanks for sharing with us cant wait for ur music! n yes LA is the best! i love it here n im glad u do to!
love ya joe
always
jenn
September 10th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Wow….sounds like you haven’t stopped much since the end of the tour! Glad that you had an awesome vacation…even if it did keep poor Griffin constantly traveling. I look forward to hearing what you have in store for us!! Thank you for sharing your vacation adventures with us!! LA might be great but we miss you in Boston!! Just remember, there’s no place like home!
Love ya!
Christine xoxo
September 10th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Thank you for the recap of your vacation! It’s always a treat to read your blogs, so detailed that you almost swear you can picture it yourself. Can’t wait to hear what you got in store for us with your music! And I hope we hear plenty from you before the cruise. Can’t become strangers!
Much love,
Sneaky
September 10th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Hi Joey,
thanks for sharing your Summer vacation with us. I know how hard it must really be to travel with a little one. Griffin sure is a little cutie pie and your wife is very beautiful too. I’m sooooooo thirlled to hear that there going to be another new kid in the family!!!! I felt just awful when I heard about the fire in California! Those poor peoples who lost everythings. I’m glad to hear that your house didn’t get hit with the fire! I can’t wait to hear your music either! You been my favorite ever since I was 15, and now I’m 37 and your still my favorite. If I ever have a son he will be named after you. Love ya, Joey. Take care now.
Peace,
Laurie
September 10th, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Wow! You know how to impress the girls:-)! Wonderful writing, I loved every word. Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us! Cant wait to hear the new music:-D God bless you and your family.
September 10th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Joeeeeeeeeeeeeey!
Thanks for sharing all the stories about your summer vacation!
Wow you had an amazing summer! Pretty busy, huh??
I felt as if I was there with you reading through this.
You are really good with words and I loved every part of it.
So relieved that you are safe from the fire in La La Land.
I was so worried about you and your family!
Can’t wait for your music to be released and be shared to us.
You have an amazing voice and your voice really put me at ease and at the same time, makes me excited!
Take care and keep us posted through twitter and here.
Your words, your tweets, your blogs makes me happy always.
Thank you again, and all the best to you and your family.
love and respect always,
y-mac
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
September 10th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Wow Joe!.. seriously you left no detail out, its like you took us along day by day on your vacation. Glad to know you had quite an adventure, glad to hear the family is doing well and that life has slowly begun to settle back into what it was before this whole NK mania blew up again. Excited to hear that you are doing new music, I look forward to hearing what you have been busy creating, Im sure it’ll be good. Now that you’re back keep the twitpics going! lol..
September 10th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Wow! Seems like a busy fun summer. Thanks for sharing with us Joe. It has been such a joy for you guys to be sharing so much of your lives with us. I can’t wait to hear your new album when it is done you have amazing talent and such a beautiful voice. My fingers are still crossed that I will get the chance to see you on the cruise. Until then hope to see you around on twitter. All the best to you, Barret and Griff and the little one on the way.
Loving you forever,
Carebear
September 10th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Joe, you’re a great writer (typing/spelling notwithstanding lol). You really paint a great story with words. I’d love to see more blogs from you!
September 10th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Thank you for the detailed blog! It sounds like u had a pretty busy vacay,but also had fun!Looking forward to the album!Love ya!
Sassyashli
Ashli
September 10th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
THANK YOU FOR THIS JOE!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Hey Joe,
Keep your wife comfortable and well fed, if mom’s not happy no one is.
It’s great to hear from you. Nice to hear about your fun trip with your family, and I’m sure we can all relate to the crying kid incident, but it sounds like it all worked out. Good luck on your new album and the soon to be baby
It sounds like you are blessed, and always remember to give back
Lots of luck, Lea
September 10th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
hey joemac,
nice to hear you n fam had a fabulous vacay. great hearing all bout it! thnks for sharing. u r the best!
waiting patiently for BUTTERFLIES!!! believe that!!
much love, michelle
September 10th, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Best…blog….ever! Thanks for the great read Joe. I am glad to hear that your summer vacation was an enjoyable. Can’t wait to feel those butterflies!
Lots of love from NorCal
September 10th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
Joey,
Glad to hear from ya and thanks for sharing so much with us. Glad you and your family had such a great time this summer. I can’t wait to hear your new album.
Love ya lots, xoxoxoxo
September 10th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
How nerdy does it make me that while I think it’s great to read about your trip to see family, I’m most interested in the fact that your dad worked with Ted Kennedy? I’m a bit of a political junkie and that’s really interesting to me.
Good luck with the new baby.
Jobetta
September 10th, 2009 at 4:50 pm
thank you for sharing your summer with us, joe…it was very well written by the way…i could almost imagine the beach and the fresh air…meeting the kennedy’s…and experiencing the solemnity that day…and then fires in la…i can feel the heat and smell the ash…i love how u write and i love how u share these things with us. thanks again and i am super freakin excited to hear what u’ve been doin with the music. love it. love u. take care!!
September 10th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
Yay! Mac is back!
Ah, Joe…thanks for the awesome blog. It was certainly a good read and I appreciate you sharing the fun and not so fun details of your summer. I’m looking forward to the new album and all the excitement that goes with new music.
By the way, you’re a braver soul than I. After attending college and working a few years in LA, I had to get the heck out. I have to say I don’t miss it much. But it’s great you’re down there making it a much nicer place.
See you on the cruise or possibly sooner (maybe a tour to go with that new album??)
September 10th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Awww Joe! Thanks for sharing your life with us. So you guys are making solo albums, will there be another NK album as well? OMGSH, a solo Joe Mac TOUR would be HEAVEN!!!!!!!!!! Poor Griff with all that traveling he’s done..
Love you guys and so glad you all got a vacation..in the Hamptons! How fun!!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxzoxoxoxoxoxoxox ~*Kelly*~
September 10th, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Hey Joe!!!!!! Thanks for sharing your family’s summer time!
September 10th, 2009 at 6:07 pm
glad you had a good summer. i live in mission hill and sen. kennedy’s funeral was literally 500 yards from my apartment.
September 10th, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Thanks for sharing your adventures for the summer! Sounds like you had a pretty busy traveling summer and experienced a lot of emotions. Griffin is a doll and I’m sure he was cute as a button even when he was on the plane! I can’t wait until your new stuff comes out — it’s going to be something new that will play on my ipod other than The Block. So get crackin’! Finish that LP/EP and let us hear it already! HAHA.
September 10th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Hey Joe! Thank you for sharing about your summah vacation;) I am glad that you had a great time visiting your family and friends and that you discoverd air! I can’t wait to hear your next CD!!! Please come to NC!! I will be there!! Hope u and ur family are staying safe in LA!!
September 10th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Hey Joe,
I am glad to hear that u and the family had a nice vacation. I can’t wait for u and the guys to go back on tour. And officially come back to your fans!
Much love to you, Jon, Jordan, Donnie, and Danny.
Giulia
AKA Hot Wheels
ggmotta6281975@gmail.com
September 10th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Summer does go by fast especially when you are busy doing things. That was really nice of your friend to do that. It’s nice hearing the wind when you are sleeping. It sounds very peaceful. There have been a lot of fires in California wow. I feel so bad for anybody that the fires & the earthquakes have hurt in anyway. That is great that they aren’t near you & your family.
September 10th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
hey joe! glad u had a good summer and thanks for sharing
sucks about the fires though, im in CALI and boy let me tell ya HOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOSH
LOVE YA, PATRICIA
http://www.twitter.com/joey4patty
September 10th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Joe. You have painted such a beautiful picture of your hometown and shared with us such a personal side of your life. Thank you for offering such a human perspective to those of us who admire you and for reminding us that we are all one in the same; experiencing the same life journey that we have all been given to enjoy together.
I was so tickled to see that Griffin enjoys mussels! They’re my favorite. Let him know that Auntie Ana in Florida is very proud of him for being so brave traveling the world and trying new things. And to Barrett, I send all my best wishes and look forward to welcoming the newest member of the Mac family to this precious world we live in.
I hope to have an opportunity to see Boston someday, you have made it seem like the home I never had.
All my love to you and your family always, and I can’t wait to hear your new music!
Ana Hill
http://twitter.com/AnaHill
North Fort Myers, Florida
September 10th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Thanks for sharing your month with your fans. I have to admit I need a new NKOTB CD. Hope something is coming for all the other fans that can’t go on the cruise.
September 10th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
wow Joe ever think of writing a book, I felt like I was on vacation with you and your family…. I live on LI and love the Hamptons u can be mellow out there.. and the north fork of LI is beautiful you feel like you are not even on Long Island … and the beaches are beautiful on the south shore of the island. well looking forward to hearing some music from you soon…
September 10th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
That’s a great story! I wish I could say my summer vacation was as eventful, but I can’t. Oh well, maybe someday. Can’t wait for the new album. Take care and keep the tweets coming!
Lots of Love to U!
Nikki B.
September 11th, 2009 at 12:08 am
Thank you sooo much for sharing that wonderfull experience with us some great some sad: )Well I am so happy that you have turned out to be an amazing husband and father and it sounds like you had an amazing summer. Yes being from boston myself it was really sad to hear the news of teddy kennedy. May he RIP….. Griffen is sooo adorable I don’t know any other kid who could be as wonderfull as him on all those long trips he is a true trooper :). Well thank you for keeping all of us updated it means a great deal to all of us that you think of us. I can not wait till your new albulm comes out i am so happy for you. To me your home will always be here with us in Boston. But… I am happy for you that LA has become your home now. And that people there are treating you all well. I can not imagine how scary and sad that must be though with all of those fires. You will all stay in my prayers lets pray for more rain!!!!!. I have been keeping myslef busy as well as you know after 10 months of looking i finnally landed a job
And things seem to be looking up for my hubby as well in the job market. Had a quiet summer did not do all to much but it was nice. Well I can not wait to hear more from you keep in touch with all of us. Congrats !!! on the baby!! Wish your wife well for us and give Griffen love from all of us. Keep all of us popsicles in your thoughts we have missed you.
Much love to you Joe
Ttys
HOLLY LEBLANC AKA @HOLLYMARIE28 twitter
September 11th, 2009 at 1:44 am
Hi Joe!
Thanks a million for the wonderfully detailed blog! I loved every single word of it! I´m glad you and your loved one had such a great time in the Hamptons and I look very much forward to listening to your new music soon!!
Take care and much love,
Yvonne
September 11th, 2009 at 3:33 am
hey joe,
thank you for sharing your summer with us,to travel with a child it’s not always easy.i know it well. i have 2 children , one of 8 and one 4 years.
my first child was 18months when we left in Egypt, and in the touchdown of the plane he vomited on me. it’was horrible, but when we are parents we accept everything or almost.;-).
I hope to see you in Belgium or in France.
take care
ps:sorry for my english , i speak french so… :-)A bientôt
September 11th, 2009 at 5:42 am
Wow thank you so much for letting us in to your life! Sounds like you had an awesome vacay..I enjoyed every bit of it!
Sending Love to you and your family!!
XX XX
September 11th, 2009 at 6:07 am
wow Joe, thanks for sharing your summer with us
love from Italy (summer is nice here
September 11th, 2009 at 6:15 am
What a nice long entry! And fun to read!
Thanks!
September 11th, 2009 at 7:03 am
Joe, hello from the East Coast!!
What a wonderful account of your vacation… you gave me warm fuzzies (old school lingo) and butterflies by the end… we all really do bleed the same and go through similar experiences no matter who we are… your accounts bring back so many memories of my busy family and our travels on “vacation/work” which really does keep us on our toes for entertaining the kiddos at the beach, pool, aquariums, museums, rather than rest. As parents, we grab our moments when we can: with sunbathing while reading a book during nap times…. we’re blessed to have west coast family in Southern Cali and Washington, so my kids were traveling while in the womb… 5-6 hour flights scheduled during naptime/bedtime so the kids are passed out after an hour of playing on the Leapster just to wake while in decent to LAX/JohnWayne/Seatac/ATL… I’ve felt the pride when my kids were barely noticed on the plane and I’ve gotten red in the face when the air pressure was a little too much for my little girl’s ears even after the bubble gum and gulping/yawning didn’t work… it happens to us all that travel frequently… you just have to roll with it and be strong.
We’ve walked just about the same paths even as strangers… the Boston Museum is a wonderful place but keep an eye on your little one - first and only time I “lost” my child was while we were at the Boston Museum… that June day in 2007 is burned in my mind just like 9/11 (today) is… let your little ones explore but keep them close to you… we were lucky and blessed that day… we needed a break after that trauma so we headed to Cape Cod for the “Kennedy” Experience (I grew up Catholic.. my mom’s memories of meeting JFK at her Catholic HS in Indy just before his death is etched in my mind).. of course my views have changed and I’m non-denom “christian” now but the Kennedy’s will always hold a place in my Irish heart…
Getting back to reality after having tons of R&R is mind boggling… we were in Big Bear and Orange County last year for a wedding at Huntington Beach during the fires… nothing like going to Disney Land, seeing the red haze in the distance, feeling the soot on your skin, and worrying that your brother-in-law (best man in the wedding) will get called to duty since he’s a fire fighter. Luckily that didn’t happen, but this year is a different story. He’s been on the fire lines for 15+ days and his birthday was yesterday (9/10). No wonder you were looking for that super duper pressure washer - I finally saw that infomercial 2 nights ago and thought of you - FUNNY! Please keep the firefighters in your prayers..
Well, no “ordinary” Joe, it would be wonderful if our paths crossed outside of a New Kids concert/Cruise! Keep up the good work on everything you do… can’t wait to feel the butterflies again with your new album!
Lots of love to you and yours!!
~Jenn (JoeysIrishPower - a Let’s Get This Girl!)~
September 11th, 2009 at 7:41 am
Again great story! Felt like we were right there with you! My family (my 2 kids and I) went to St. Louis for vacation this summer. I looked into the City Museum like you suggested, but we didn’t make it. Maybe next year or so. There were just so many other things to do, and many of them free. Thanks again.
Sally
LONG LIVE THE BLOCK!!!
September 11th, 2009 at 8:51 am
gave me chills and a smile reading your story. Summer vacation well described. can’t wait for another tour next year. See you guys soon!
Live long the Block.
lots of love!!
Angie D.
September 11th, 2009 at 9:05 am
hello there, congrates is in order. i love the story and that you spent some time with the family. i have a five years old boy that has started school and it was hell trying to get him adjusted to the time for the bus.I pray for the safety of your trips with your family and the group too I even pray for a speedy recovery for jordan too. I hope you get a chance to see the Howes Caves, and the Secret Caverns too up here in upstate ny you can even bring your family to see them. I have 11.72 acres of land with fishing area too the resovior is always full with fish. it is something fun to do you know. please e-mail me at sagw3177@yahoo.com if you what to be penpals that would be cool to me. Sandra A Galonski
September 11th, 2009 at 9:13 am
Joe
Wow! It sounds like you and your family had a great August. Thanks so much for sharing. I have always wanted to visit Boston. If and when I do, I will have to check out that museum.
Good luck with your new baby. What an exciting time for you!
Tell your wife congrats as well.
XOXOXOXO- to little Griffin
Hope I can hear the new music soon.
LONG LIVE THE BLOCK!!!!
Amber
September 11th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Thank you for thinking of us and sharing your time off with us, too! Your summer vacation sounded great! I always felt like summer was over after my birthday, 8/15. I lasted a little longer than you!
I have also had that kid on the plane, and at church, the grocery store, Target- you get the picture. My sympathies to you and Barrett- it’s so hard to watch them fall apart, and be unable to fix it. (Not to mention the mean looks.=)) I bet that man wasn’t giving you evil eyes because of Griffin fussing, but because his wifey knew who you were.
Take care! I am sooo looking forward to your new album! Saved my birthday money so I can but it ASAP.
September 11th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
What in the world is a monk fish?
Oh well, nice blog. Sounds like you had a great summer. Can’t wait to hear the new CD. I loved 5B&MS so if that’s any indication of what’s to come I’ll love that too.
Miss you guys!
Much Love & Respect!
September 11th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
hope you had a GREAT time, hope ur enjoying ur vaca…cnt wait for the new CD!! LOVS YA LOTS!!
♥ LOVE FROM NJ!!
LOVE,
STEPHANIE♥
September 11th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Hi Joey Joe!!
What a great summer you had! Thank you so much for sharing, I really enjoyed reading it. I must admit that you made me laugh when you said that mean guy on the airplane was throwing darts at ya. I thought we were the only ones to say “throwing darts”!!LOL You and your family are so precious!!
Take care of you and yours!
Love, Denise xoxo
September 11th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
Composition= A+ Spelling= A Content= A+ Originality= A+ Sentence structure= A
Overall score= A+++++ ;o) I loved it! I felt like I was traveling with you & the fam! Thank you for sharing this with your loyal & true followers! Anything written, spoken, or Twittered by you five guys is like a mini- party in my heart & it makes me so happy! I hope you will keep fulfilling all my dreams by just being YOU & keeping me in “tune” with your goings-on. Many well wishes to you, your lovely wife, & the Griffster (& let’s not forget Duncan!). Until we meet again (on Twitter) XOXOXOXOXO ! Love ya, Hon!
-Floreisha
aka @FloMac1 bka Joe Mac’s (Undercover) Wife :o)
September 11th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Hey Joe Bird!
Thank u for taking the time and effort to tell all us fans about your vacation! I am so happy to hear that u and your wife are expecting again…
I have 4 children the first three are seventeen months apart…and that my friend was interesting! My last was what they call an opps… but she has brought me so much joy that I can understand why there are octomoms…
All I have to say to u is not to take one day for granted and AS kenny chesney would say…DON’t BLINK!!
Love to u and your family…
September 11th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Joe…I am absolutely impressed with your ability to paint a picture in words. I am glad you enjoyed the summer by spending quality time with Barret and Griffen. You worked so hard the past year and a half. I think Barret deserves to be treated like a QUEEN! Hahaha… I met your wife at the very first concert quietly waiting for the concert to start, sitting by herself texting away on her phone. Cherry (my sister) and I introduced ourselves to her…she is beautiful and so lovely. We even bumped into her the next day and spoke to her. Anyhow…thank you for sharing your blog with us. Please keep in touch! Much love to you and the family…Candy
September 11th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
Thank you for sharing Joe
I enjoyed reading every word…always do 
Love Always to the New Kids,
Renee Bryant
Dallas, TX
September 11th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
Joe, WHat a great story! Thank you for sharing your experience with us! I am a Cape Cod girl myself. My inlaws have a house down in Harwich we go to. Nothing like relaxing on the back deck, beer in hand, clean air and just talking with the family. I love Hyannis too. I left the Cape house on labor day and while driving over the Sagamore bridge I couldn’t help but feel a little sad. This happens to me every year because I know it will be the last time I see the house until April the following year. Time to get my daughter back to school. Theatre, voice lessons, dance, just back to her regular routine. I’m glad you enjoyed your time with the family, I know I did I feel blessed everday. Blessed that I have a healthy family and great friends to share the summer with!!
September 12th, 2009 at 4:43 am
Good Morning Joseph,
how cute is that? Enjoy your babies now Joe, cuz they grow too fast. Love to all of you, and God Bless
Couldn’t resist calling you that, must be the mom in me. As I am sitting here, coffee in hand, I couldn’t help but giggle through your airplane experience. As a mom of 4 I know exactly what you mean about the dirty looks of the dagger thrower sitting in front of you. My dagger thrower was really ticked off because my baby girl kept kicking his seat AW POOR BABY. You’d think no one ever had kids before. I was on the 2009 cruise with all my girls who incidentally are not babies anymore. One of them in particular, Jodi, managed to get herself up in VIP on white night and she is plastered all over utube. I was a nervous wreck because I thought she was going to dump her screwdriver all over Jordan’s white jacket. But hey that’s kids for ya. They always give your heart a jumpstart. I wish we were going to cruise 2010, but finances are not so good this time. We, all of us from Cape Cod, will be looking forward to the next tour at least and hopefully cruise 2011. Because I am older, I generally get a razzing about my obsession with you guys, but too bad for the jealous ones! I love you guys just the same and always will. I especially love blasting “The Block” tunes out my car windows, while singing with my 3 year old granddaughter, who by the way thinks she will marry Donnie some day
September 12th, 2009 at 10:05 am
Love the story Joe I was a fan of you guys back then and I still am. I am so glad you all are singing again. I get alot of grief being a 31 year old new kids fan but I dont care. lol Take care
Robyn New mexico
September 12th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
You’re quite a talented writer. For a minute there I thought you’d written a novel. A very good read; best blog so far!
September 12th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Joey,
Thank you for writing this and sharing what you did on your vacation! It sounds like you all had an awesome time!! Can’t wait to hear your new cd and see what you have in store for us!
Debbie
September 13th, 2009 at 7:54 am
wawww…. you write splendidly. It was pleasure to read you blog.
In French : bravo, génial!
Take care
Lucie Belgium (brussels)
September 13th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
It sounds like you had a great time. I have been a fan for over 20 years and I didn’t know you were such a great writer. I love you guys
September 14th, 2009 at 3:28 am
Joe, it’s great of you to share your life with us. Glad to hear there’s more music in the works. I feel so much more a part of all this now.
Love from Barbados
September 14th, 2009 at 7:21 am
Thank you for sharing your vacation with us. Now I want to go to the Hamptons. The cottage sounds like something I would love to live in. Someday! I keep telling hubby to stop dreaming and lets do it. Anyway, I’m glad you had a great time with your family and the memories that will last a lifetime. God Bless you and your family!
September 14th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Joey,
I live in Montreal but I was vacationing with my family in Cape Cod (Brewster) when Ted Kennedy died. You could really tell how important he was for everybody in the cape. Tropical Storm “Danny” (I guess I just cannot get the NK out of my mind, can I?) kindda ruined it for us also but I was happy to feel that “small town affaire” you were talking about.
Your Summer vacation sounds great. I have a daughter who was born the same day as Griffin in Mov. 07 so next time we are all in cape Cod together maybe we should meet up for a play date or something. What do you think??
Q
September 14th, 2009 at 11:55 am
Love the story Joe :). I wanted to let all of you know that there older music and there newer stuff is having a good impact on my son. Whoever said there no such thing as healing threw music must not have had a handycapped child. My son started getting on his hands and knees and rock back and forth when i play the older music. So i wanted to see if it was for real so i put the new stuff on and he did the same thing. He will be 5 years old in December. Well Tears fell when i seen my son do this. So I want to let you all know how much of a impact there having on me and my sons life. Theres healing in music. He also Is very active now especially when i put your music on :). Thank you Joe, Jordan, Jon, Danny, and Donnie for everything.
Robyn NM
September 14th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Aww! This was a very sweet piece to read! Thank you for sharing! I have to say, that although I grew up in Columbus, Ohio and not Massachusetts, I too have always felt a kinship to the Kennedy family. I was raised in an Irish Catholic family and we were taught to respect and admire this wonderful family. I watched the entire funeral mass and stop at the Capital as well as the burial which continued well into the dark night. My friends thought I was crazy, watching that much, but I felt as though I needed to be a part of it all. A year and a half ago, my mom was diagnosed with dementia. I became her power of attorney and main care taker; the youngest child of seven. If it was not for Ted Kennedy penning the FMLA, I would have lost my job last year for all of the time I had to take off for my mom. Basically, I just want to thank you for mentioning his passing in your message. And thank you for letting us fans into your life as well!! It truly means more than you know. And although we have never met, I feel a kinship to you and the other guys as well. I do not think that will ever waiver. Many blessings to you and your family!!
September 14th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
I just want to say, “WOW! Thank you for that! Seriously!”.
Funny, as we are vacationing with our little ones, living our lives as we know it, I often wonder what you guys (aka NKOTB) are doing. Enjoying the beach, the water, and good food…seems to be a commonality, human nature, I guess. Our weather hasn’t been the greatest but starting August 1st, we’ve had the best time…right up until this past weekend. Having a child in school forces you to get back into more of a “routine”. Eventhough she started school Sept 1st, we, as a family, have had some wonderful moments. Glad to hear you’ve had some wonderful moments too.
A very LOOONG time fan,
Jen B
PS: I’m so friggin’ anxious to hear what you’re working on! It will be worth the wait! Ahhhh…sweet nectar!
September 15th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
It’s so good to hear an update about you and your gorgeous family. Have you ever thought about writing a book? Seriously. The way you wrote about your summer was so descriptive and enthralling. I really enjoyed it the way I enjoy reading books by my favorite authors. Thank you for that. I look forward to seeing you guys back on the road soon…I hope that’s in the future. All my best to your family and new baby-to-be. The Block is alive and kickin’ here in the Pacific Northwest. =)
Love always,
Sarra
September 15th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Dear Joe
god how I detested those but yours quite frankly I enjoyed reading. It had me cracking up big time. I can’t wait to see you guys again in 2010…maybe you’ll come to Youngstown,OH I can only hope. In closing what I did on my summer vacation was that I had seen you guys in Erie Pa in March and Cleveland, OH in June lmao and it felt good ahhh to be a teen ager again and care free… 
your post came at perfect timing…reminds me of those damn reports they made you do in school…”What I did during my summer vacation”
Peace,
Jeremy Fearer,
Girard,OH
September 15th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
Hey Joe,
First let me congratulate you on your second baby! YAY!!! (i know it’s old news but i hadn’t posted my congrats lol)
I am very happy for you and your wife. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself in this post. It was definitely a fun read. I can’t wait to hear what all you guys are working on. During the NKOTB break I’ve had to say goodbye to another fave band- Nine Inch Nails. I must find yet another musical vice lol.
Thanks again and blessings to you and your family.
September 16th, 2009 at 7:12 am
Hey Joe!
I wanted to post right after I read your ‘report’, still it took me a while. It was so much fun to read it! Already the title made me laugh - reminded me of those school compositions little kids write after any vacation. Thanks for being this cool,and sharing all these details with us! Just told to my sister, it is so much different reading it straight from you than getting some lousy interview and who knows what you said exactly, or what did you mean. But it was really special!And I thank you : ) One comment though - what did you take so long to read ‘The Great Gatsby’ my dear? It is a good afternoon read - to me it took almost longer to read your essay than reading that book : ) But it’s a good one indeed! Actually I suggested it already, how about you guys update us all about your readings? Like Danny does with his workout, you guys could give a weekly(?) update what are U reading exactly? It wood be FUN!
But anyway what matters most, you are working on something new for us - how do you even have so much talent and inspiration, that after such a great album and a very busy year feeling the urge to work on something new? Can’t wait to hear what it is, but take your time, I know it will worth the wait!
Take care and regards to your whole family and to the other KIDS!!!!!
XOX
Rita - from Hungary
September 16th, 2009 at 9:30 am
Sooo excited to see what is in store for us next!! Hope you guys do another tour REALLY soon.
September 16th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
I know what you mean about the fires Joe Mac. When we’ve had a really big fire season about 6 or so years back in Sydney, I’d wake up to burnt leaves i the backyard, red angry skies and smoke everywhere. You would be constantly blow your nose to get all the soot out of your nose, and if you had asthma or hayfever, forget it, you where sick as a dog due to the air quality. It was quite surreal.
Thanks for letting us know what you and your family are up to! Makes us feel loved, and you are still thinking of us.
Appreciate it!
Look forward to getting butterflies over what is giving you butterflies at thinking of it will give us butterflies!:)
Love to your family
xoxo
Kendi - Australia
September 16th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
Hey guys,
I just wanted to drop another line and ask what the rest of u all have been up 2. It was great hearing about all that Joe had going on. Now, I would love to hear about the rest of u. Please blog soon.
Giuia
AKA Hot Wheels
ggmotta6281975@gmail.com
September 16th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Thanks for sharing those moments with us Joe! We’re always interested in what you’ve been up to! I AM VERY EXCITED to hear you are working on an album!!! I absolutely LOVE the passion and love behind your “5 brothers” song! It is amazing!!! I want to hear more from you Joey! Keep working on it for us!
Love to you, Grif and Barrett!
Natalie Evon ;0)
September 17th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
joey joe: thanks so much for sharing this part of ur life with us ur fans.. Thats what makes u so special.. We are some People that harrass u where ever u go, u actually take the time to share something so precious to you with all us..
I am glad u are having a great summer and able to spend good quality time with ur family and that u took time to be in ur best friends wedding that is so awesome joey.. thanks so much i have had surgery lately and now am on the coach recovering and missed u guys thanks again for sharing ur story and insight with us..
love always
Nay from Alabama
blockhead forever
September 17th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
JOEY: Thank you for sharing this with your fans:) many thank you very much
muchas gracias babe …..
ARGENTINE IS WAITING FOR FOR YOU
September 17th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
heyyy joe mac
wink thumbs up…. coolest… great. I love yall too… 
oxox!!
Wow, I love heard ur story had fun so enjoy stuff great aww… ur lit boy gtm so very sweetest first trips stuff so very have fun good times! w/ur family so very enjoy fun ur vac great good times! I’m so very glad…. heard ur blogs is so very awesome! Nice best it! Smile
Love,
oxox
Kmb
God blessing
Biggest fan #1
From: colorado springs, co
September 18th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Joey Joe,
Thanks so much for sharing your summer vacation story with all of us blockheads. It’s wonderful that you care enoughto share your feelings and experiences with all of us. congrats on Baby Mac #2, if you don’t mind me asking, when is the baby due? How wonderful to have your wife and son on tour with you. You are a great Dad! I am so proud to be part of the Blockhead Mom group. I have met some truly amazing people and love sharing stories about our little ones. I’ve been a blockhead since age 11, a tradition I have passed on to my 4 teenage sisters and also to my 16 month old son…he especially LOVES “Twisted!” we listen to it everyday. Keep on rockin’ Joey…hope to hear some new hits soon.
Sincerely,
Carrie Schurr
Blockhead Mom rms51708
September 18th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
I’ve also had the awesome experience of having a fussy baby on an airplane. Most people were really sweet, but I did have a twenty-year-old sitting behind me who stated loudly for me to “just shut that kid up”. It was either ignore her or punch her… decided it was probably best to ignore her.
Congrats on the new baby on the way! When’s the big day? My hubby and I just welcomed our new son Isaac two weeks ago today. And tell Barrett to make sure you pamper her- foot rubs were my favorite!
Can’t wait for the new album!
Love,
Sharon F.
Charlottesville, VA
September 18th, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Wow! I felt like I was there with you as your told that to us! Thank you for sharing your life with us and I cannot wait to hear the new album. Will it be the classics like your last album or something different?
September 20th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
I love reading your stories. It’s like listening to an old friend. It just goes to show how much of a down to earth real person you are. Your just like everyone else in this world…a hard working person who enjoys his family and life itself. I’m glad you had a wonderful summer. Congrats on the new baby coming soon. We are also expecting… on Dec. 30th this year! I’m more than ready..but have 3 more months to go! Blah! Can’t wait for the new album!
Take care..and give your prego wifey foot rubs every night! That’s an order Mr. Mac! LOL!
Jennifer
Detroit, MI
September 20th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Hey Joe! I’d like to know if you think about comming to Brazil!! It would be wonderful to see NKOTB here! We love you, I used to love NKOTB when I was about 12 and now I’m 30 hahahahahaha So great!!!! kissesssssssssssss
Tatiana D’Addio
São Paulo, Brazil
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:04 pm
I loved reading this Joe!! Very well written too:):) Glad you had a super time on vacay with the family. Congratulations on the baby to come!! I love just how humble you are; thanks for sharing your thoughts:):)
Can’t wait to hear your new album & feel the butterflies too!!
September 25th, 2009 at 4:51 am
Just checking in to see, when was the last replay in here.
My best two song of the last two days are
ONE SONG & STARE AT YOU.
Love you guys so much, cant wait to heir Danny new solo album.
September 29th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
hey,
im glad u had fun with your family and i know how hard it is travlin with kids too as i have 3 boys. any just thought i would leave a message and to find out wen u guys are coming back to the uk (ie nottinham)as i would love to see you guys in concert as i have never had the chance to see you so if u can get back to me if you can to let me know all the best.
kim from uk(leicester)xxxxx love you guys xxx
September 30th, 2009 at 10:15 am
when I was younger I passed my time listen to your music hoping to meet you .. crazy for the NK!! Now I listen to your music but always with a different awareness since then. You also are an adult, you have a family, I observe what life has brought you as it has brought me a wonderful family, and this is what counts.
I used to think that each of you would not be achievable now that I see you are with your child you are not the showman, only a father. And that’s the most beutiful thing in life. or when you post your thoughts seems to me even closer. Can you tell me when you have your solo album release ?
Congrats to the new baby coming.. God bless you
October 1st, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Hey Joey! Thanks for keeping in touch with us! I/we’ve missed you! I’m so glad you had such a great vacation! Congrats on your wife being pregnant. She’s one very lucky lady! I love!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope you guys don’t make us wait too long before you go on tour again. And I can’t wait to hear your next album!
With Love Always,
Amy King
October 15th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
I CANNOT WAIT TO HEAR THE NEXT ALBUM EITHER!!! JOEY MAC YOU ARE THE BEST AND SO PSSIONATE ABOUT US AND YOUR WORK…
CAN’T WAIT TO CRUISE IT WILL YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR… XOXOXOXOXOX KEEP IT UP BABY… LET’S GET THIS BABY!!!
~NICOLE, HARPERS FERRY WEST VA
November 4th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
I wonder if Joey reads all of these comments? I’m not sure how else to contact him. Firefox is complaining about joeymcintyre.com.
Anyway, Joey, if you get this, I need your help for a Christmas/Birthday gift for someone. I know it’s a long shot that you get this, but I don’t think the actual idea would be much of a bother for you. Here’s my email to get ahold of me: bufori at gmail dot com
November 24th, 2009 at 4:14 am
My Photos - nkotb fan meet