Amid the laborious and sorrowful themes of September, there is also great joy. This month the Church celebrates the fruit of a different kind of labor: that of St. Ann, who gave birth to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Feast of the Nativity of Mary is celebrated Sept. 8. Honor her by making a birthday cake (like this blue ombré cake, online at www.catholiccuisine.com) or blueberry muffins (www.thecatholickitchen.com).