Yes, it was windy yesterday, which makes any pacing troublesome. Sometimes you just have to run and not worry about pacing too much.
If you're going to eat before a run then yes, you need to let it settle. Some people can go further without eating, it's a personal thing. You can adapt to an extent but I'd suggest that this point in spring marathon training probably isn't the time to be trying anything too experimental, unless you've got a real problem with what you're doing now!
Personally I rarely drink during any long run, unless it's stupidly hot which rules out January! I do try & make sure I'm hydrated before I start though, as I'll get stomach cramps if I don't. Certainly in the colder weather I would try & get used to running with less water, as long as you're still running comfortably.
If you want to have some water, there are some alternatives to carrying it with you:
Run a lapped course, and leave a bottle somewhere discreet so you can have some every lap.
Take a smaller bottle, and route somewhere you know you can fill up: water fountain, mates house, friendly running shop. Avoid stagnant ponds though 
Take some cash and buy a small bottle halfway round your run if you need one.
