[It was a pity about the songs. Such music was better when sung by multiple people.]

We might consider candles in addition to whatever lights we can make. They'll burn down, but they put out light and warmth.

[And if the weather was chilly, such a thing might be welcome.]

I will do what I can to make the food. I might request that others contribute to the price of ingredients if a lot is needed, however.

[There is only so much he can afford. His money has gone to a house and stockpiling normal goods for the winter, and there isn't much coin left in his supplies.]