(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Mariah Carey says her new album will address the real meaning of Christmas.

The legendary singer is currently promoting her second festive album, Merry Christmas II You. The R&B star previously made a Christmas album in 1994 which spawned the massive hit All I Want for Christmas Is You. The 40-year-old is happy with her second attempt confirming that her new offering will be more spiritual in content.

"It's festive and fun, but a lot of it is also spiritual in content. I wanted to address the real meaning of Christmas, with songs like The First Noel and O Little Town of Bethlehem. I think some people are scared to discuss what the holiday really means. I'm not trying to convert anybody (to Christianity). I'm just saying, this is me, this is what I feel," she commented.

Mariah has more cause than most to be in a festive mood this year with the announcement that she is expecting her first child with husband Nick Cannon. Mariah is quick to count her blessings as she prepares for her favourite holiday season.

"I always love this time of year. Whether it's a good time or a bad time, I'm never just going to mope around on Christmas. But this year will be exceptionally meaningful. I'm just so grateful for everything," she said.

Mariah does plan to relax after the holidays however and significantly reduce her workload, though she wont go into hiding completely. Previously, husband Nick had expressed concerns over his wifes work ethic even banning her from wearing high heels once she had conceived but Mariah is resistant to change.

"That's the plan, to relax after the holidays. But as Nick says, it's just not realistic to try to get me to not do anything," she concluded. (C) Cover Media