A wrapper inscribed with traditional Chinese script, with a fruity, semisweet tinge. Made from the fruit of hawthorn and enjoyed by the likes of many—including a little Filipina in Las Vegas. 
Not much was familiar when my great-grandfather immigrated from China to the Philippines and met his wife, my great grandmother, Ah Ma. The once delicate palate of my Chinese grandfather was replaced by the over sweet appetite of the common Filipino. One of the things that always remained constant however, was Hawflakes. It didn’t matter that it was a new country, he and his family were always able to purchase Hawflakes from the local grocery store. 
Wanting to take advantage of the free business economy that China did not allow, he was able to establish a successful restaurant. In search of greater opportunities, my mother’s parents immigrated to the United States to pursue their textile business. Unfortunately, they hit a crisis leaving them poor. It was only then that the 50 cents spent buying a package of Hawflakes meant so much more to my mom. Whenever my family visits the Philippines, we make sure to leave an empty shelf in our pantry for some Hawflakes. 
Not only is the chewy snack a reminder of my family origins but it’s rooted itself into my ethnicity. I was taught that no matter where my family moved, we all enjoyed eating Hawflakes. The everyday snack has become more than just something to pick off the grocery store shelf, but a vital aspect of my family’s journey. 

– Alexis Rivera

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant