N is for Nutcracker

German Nutcrackers, along with German Steinbach smokers and ornaments are well loved in my family. My older brother lived in Germany for 4 years in the late 80s and when I visited him there I bought my first Nutcracker. Traditionally Nutcrackers depicted kings and soldiers, but now you can get one in many fictional and historical characters. I had always wanted a Santa Claus one. I received this one last year from my mom.
I have never used one to actually crack a nut. I wonder if anyone does.