Original Ideas Make A Gift of Cash Special If you're really up a tree (no pun intended) about what to give ' someone, a gift of money is really not crass w hen it's given with a little thought. What with prices skyrocketing every day it will probably be a better choice than you imagined. Given in one of these ways it surely won't seem cold or impersonal: imper-sonal: Enclose cash or check with a menu from an interesting and unusual restaurant. On a large sheet of colored paper trace the shape of a Christmas tree and cover it with dollar bills held on with invisible stick tape. Put a check or money into a box of cracker jacks or small "money bag". (Available in a local bank or easy to stitch up). Enclose your gift in a symbolic container in a tiny sewing kit for someone who makes her own clothes in a toy watering can from the 5 and I0C store for the gardening enthusiast in an inexpensive money clip for anyone. A gift certificate will leave the choice to the happy recipient who can use it to advantage at after Christmas sales. For commuters or city workers try a book of tickets attached to a train schedule or a bag of tokens. A Savings Bond is a good choice because its value increases over the years, and your bank will put it in a colorful, seasonal gift envelope. Make Quick'n Easy Individual Fruit Cakes Early for Christmas Enjoyment These tiny, individual fruitcakes can be made about a week in advance and put away in a covered container until you're ready to serve them. You'll need: one I pound fruit cake (dark), Vi cups confectioners sugar, I teaspoon vanilla extract. I teaspoon cocoa, d to 8 teaspoons water. Place wire rack over waxed paper, extending paper a little beyond rack. Cut fruit cake into I inch cubes with sharp knife and stand on rack. In a bowl mix the sugar, cocoa, vanilla, and water until thick and smooth. Drizzle over fruit cake squares, covering tops and sides as it runs down. Top each square with a piece of candied fruit or a pecan half. Let stand an hour to set before storing in a covered container. Approximately Ap-proximately 24 pieces.