Great news to hear your stepdad is on the mend. Based on my stepdad's experience (he took on four of us between the ages of 3 and 14), it is a tough job. For the record, he has ben an amazing stepdad to my sisters and me, and he doted on my mother right up until she passed away in September. He was a big had a very positive influence on me. Thankfully, not in relation to football as he is a Spurs fan (Anglo Indian, born in India but raised in Brent).
Anyway, back to the football...
I enjoyed the game. Partly because I like to see Liverpool lose but mostly because I was happy for the Newcastle fans. I don't have a soft spot for Newcastle but having watched my team win a trophy for the first time in a long time (supporter from 81/82 and we did not win a trophy until 2011) and recalling the sheer joy of that day, I knew how you all felt.
Some may say, "Well, it's only a league cup" but I disagree. Seeing your team lift a trophy for the first time in a long time is a wonderful feeling. Beating Stoke at Wembley in 2011 gave me as much satisfaction as any trophy we have won since. If you are like me, you will have a permanent grin on your face for several more days. You are fully entitled to feel smug for at least a few weeks!