DecCoverhi.jpgxtinaintshothi.jpgimages courtesy of Ruven Afanador for REDBOOK

Christina Aguilera's personal life has been put under a microscope since she announced her divorce from husband Jordan Bratman last month, but her career is still hotter than ever! Xtina graces the December issue of REDBOOK, and the pop star talks candidly about the breakup of her marriage, motherhood and how Burlesque co-star Cher became a close confidante on the set of her new film, which is out this Thanksgiving.

These hot shots of Christina were taken just two days after she confirmed her split, and the 29-year-old Grammy winner said, "Every woman has the ability or the drive to do it all and have it all. Men aren't as strong and capable as we are. We're machines." Burn!

On balancing work and motherhood, Christina told the mag, "My life is cyclical. First it's album time, then it's touring time. I go through phases, so we roll with the punches. I'm not a 9-to-5 woman who has the same kind of lifestyle for years on end. I couldn't do it. I need the spontaneity, that thrill of change. That's part of how I get inspired. You know, this is what the cards have in store for Max. We put it into his brain early on that he's a traveling guy. He adapts well when we go from hotel to hotel."

Nicole Richie also spoke to the glossy about her best friend, saying, "It's very clear through Christina's music what a strong woman she is. But to watch her as a mother only skyrockets the respect I have for her. She is the woman who's recording until 4 a.m. and up at 7 to be with her son. Her dedication to Max is incredible."

Lookin' good, Xtina!