Aspartame, saccharin, high fructose corn syrup, sucralose, stevia, refined sugar.... What's a sweet, healthy gal to do?! I've got a hankering for a natural sweet-tooth satisfier that doesn't pack on the guilt. Who's with me?

Enter: Honey. That's right, that little plastic bear sitting on your grandma's pantry shelf was there for more than just decoration.

Curiosity recently got the better of me - as it's wont to do - and I set out to learn more about the sweet stuff. What I discovered is a colorful history that goes back to ancient times. Honey appears in ancient - even Biblical - texts and continues to hold religious significance for numerous religious groups.... from celebrating the New Year to representing immortality!

And while I found that honey contains only tiny amounts of vitamins and minerals, it is believed to be a great source of healthy antioxidants and has been used to enhance health throughout the ages. Now that's quite a reputation!

Member Mary Leanderts of West Allis, WI uses the sweet stuff to brighten up her smoothie recipes. Her Blue Ribbon Mary Berry Smoothie is a delightful way to get your morning jump-started, and the honey adds just the perfect texture and touch of sweetness. Medina, TN resident Pam Martin-Allen, on the other hand, shoots for sweet perfection with her savory Honey Baked Ham recipe. It is, quite simply, one of the best methods of preparing ham that I've ever tried!

With all of its flavor and all its vast history, I sure have gained a new-found respect for the natural goodness honey brings to our table. I hope that you, too, are inspired to sweeten your day by giving your favorite honey a squeeze.