Connecting two networks at one time

hi, i have connected my laptop (vista-32bit) to my desktop computer(xp) with a crossover cable(named it as private network). My desktop in not connected to any other network,but my laptop wirelessly connects to the local router for internet purposes. i was wondering if anyone can tell me how to stay connected to the internet using my wireless network from my laptop and at the same time be connected to my desktop computer.

By the local router do you mean 'your' router or a public one? If it's yours, why not ditch the crossover, connect the desktop directly to the router and set up a home network with the router as the median? Then you'll be able to connect to the internet from both computers, simultaneously if need be, as well as share resources among the two machines (printers, storage, etc.).