The Flavor That Crossed Borders

When I first crossed the border from Arizona and California into Mexico, one memory that stands out is the taste of Chiclets gum. It's a flavor that reminds me of my childhood and the exciting journey into a new country.

A Childhood Favorite

Do You Recall Chiclets Gum?

Chiclets gum was a staple in my household. Oh, how I used to love those little white flat cubes! They came in various flavors, but peppermint was my absolute favorite. They were perfect for those moments of anticipation as I stood at the border, waiting to enter Mexico.

I would always spend a couple of dollars on a large pack of Chiclets, and I would often distribute the change to young children who were selling them on the border. It’s a sneaky way to gauge someone’s age, and yes, I can confirm that I do recall them fondly.

A never-ending Cycle of Sweetness

The small size of the Chiclets was a challenge, as the flavor would run out quickly. You had to chew through two or three pieces to get through the 'dissolved' mass. This made the experience of saving up for a large pack of Chiclets quite enjoyable. It was like a never-ending cycle of sweetness, and I always felt like I was getting my money's worth.

A Symbol of Bonding and Nostalgia

Both the regular-sized and the tiny Shin-Whiz pieces are some of my cherished memories. The little purple squares were a bit of a letdown because their flavor would disappear so quickly, and you needed to chew more than you initially thought. It was a fun challenge, and it made me appreciate the regular peppermint Chiclets even more.

Even now, when I remember those little white cubes, it takes me back to those border crossings and the people who sold them to me. Chiclets gum was a symbol of bonding and nostalgia, a reminder of my childhood adventures.

The Change in Chiclets

These days, if you want to find true peppermint Chiclets, you have to import them from Mexico, and they often come with aspartame. I stick to the real sugared ones because they are a better indulgence. And while I still remember the excitement of that peppermint taste, the original Chiclets are a distant memory in a world of altered flavors.

So, if you ever find yourself at a border crossing, and you come across little children selling Chiclets, remember the stories they can tell and the joy they bring. Chiclets gum is more than just a piece of candy; it's a flavor that crossed borders and brought back memories of a simpler time.