You can setup Remote Desktop between the two.
In your System Properties(?), there is a tab for "Remote Desktop". Select that and allow remote connections. On your laptop, you will find the option to use Remote Desktop through...Start->Programs->Accessories....Communication? Administrative Tools?(I really need to get off my Mac...haha). Once that is started, try typing in the host name or IP of the desktop, it will remote connect. From there you will need to login using the username/password you have setup.
Note: Any current user logged in on the desktop will be logged off automatically when logging in remotely with Remote Desktop. However, the session started with Remote Desktop will be continued if disconnecting and reconnecting again.
UltraVNC and TightVNC work as well. UltraVNC is loaded with too many options, maybe more for advanced users? It does require password before remote connect though, which is nice sometimes.