I used to collect Santas for holiday decor, but switched to Nutcrackers one year after finding one that needed small repairs in a bargain bin at Pier 1. Rescued nutcrackers are my specialty, found in bargain bins and thrift stores. I add glitter, sequins, and glue pieces back on. The one with a bird nest and owl on its head? I added those touches.
The soldiers are lined up on the mantle each year. A few of them were purchased while attending Ballet Idaho’s The Nutcracker. My theory is there’s always room for one more. The tallest ones are about two feet. The small ones hang out in two hanging cabinets.
The itty-bitties are sold as Christmas tree ornaments. Below is a closeup of the OG Nutcracker. The tall one in back. He has also been glued back together more than any other solider. He suffered major casualties when my daughter was a toddler and he was her favorite to play with.
~Debbie