How does running affect my mood? How does my mood affect my running?

I am sitting here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in my favorite, little know, backwood steakhouse, The Spudder (http://www.thespudder.com/). It's been a really long day, starting at 6 am with my run. Man, it is cold in Tulsa, especially at 6 am! "The" place to run, I was told, is along the river, which happens to be right around the corner from the Doubletree I stay at. Unfortunately, they forgot to tell me that the trail was all torn up, and I ended up runnig along the road, on the grass, as there was no sidewalk. I went about a mile down and the grass ended where a highway overpass cut through, so I crossed the road and headed into town. The wind was WHIPPING through the Veteran's Park and I was getting pretty cold so started heading back to the hotel. Got there at about mile 3, so ran right to the hotel gym and ran the last 1.5 on the treadmill. I'm about 2.25 miles behind where I wanted to be this week, but maybe I can get it in the morning.

Sunday, I'll be running the Embarcadero 10k, plus 3 miles to complete my 9 training miles. I should probably find myself a watch to time my run/walks, but my iPod works pretty well too. Not going for any speed records, just want to keep the training exciting.

All that being that, what I am really wondering is how much impact how I am feeling has on my running, or vice versa. I have been down lately, mainly due to feeling completely disrespected by someone I care deeply about. Suffice it to say, that what was done is at the level of something I would NEVER do to another person, and I think it may end our interactions.

So, I am running along, thinking about this, wind slapping my face, and I am wondering if the tears forming in my eyes are from the thoughts or the weather.

Just finished my steak. Was emotional eating, and feel better (if not bloated) now.

What a strange strange mix of feelings right now. I am wanting to go run now, but sleepy and tired. I'm sad that I "just can't get no respect" but happy at my meal. Slightly disappointed at my nutritional violation, but a bit blush in the cheeks from a glass of Black Opal Cabernet Merlot (a better cheap Austrailian). Time to go back to the hotel and go to bed.


Good night.