It’s been almost 3 months since songbird Mariah Carey gave birth, and just as many months since anyone has seen her. The mother of twins’ self-imposed exile ended today after she spotted in New York City as she returned to her Manhattan residence.

The 41 year old is reportedly gearing up to serve as a mentor on Fox’s X Factor USA, ahead of the release of her next studio album (currently slated for a late 2011/early 2012 release window).

More pics via Celeb Buzz below…

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