Networking two computers together

This is probably simple to everyone but me. I just bought
a laptop (notebook), I have windows xp and Microsoft
Office XP on both my home computer and laptop. I want to
share all my information and make changes on both
computer while I am away from home and at home. I also
have a fax, scanner copier that I would like to share.
The computers are kept in the same room. I would like to
do this a way from home and also in the home. I have read
so much on how to hook this up but their is so many
alternatives it has just confused me. Thank you very much.