AMERICAN IDOL - KELLY CLARKSON'S PRACTICAL PRESENT

AMERICAN IDOL sinner KELLY CLARKSON splashed out on a much-wanted luxury for herself when she turned 21 - a laptop computer.

The Texas native, who welcomed her landmark birthday on 24 April (03) - just says after learning her debut album THANKFUL had hit the number one spot - decided to mark the occasion with a more down-to-earth purchase.

Her hometown pal TERAH MOXLEY says, "She bought herself this really fun laptop. She said she needed one that was easier to carry around. I think that she sees just being able to come home from her hectic schedule as enough of a birthday present."