Start pressing the F8 key as it boots up then select the option for
SAFE MODE WITH COMMAND PROMPT.
Once it settles down again you should be presented with a black screen with a flashing cursor. similar to this 'C
WINDOWS>
Enter the following at that cursor: FIXBOOT and press enter then answer 'Y' to the request to continue, the boot.ini file will be redrawn for you.
Once completed you MUST type 'EXIT at the prompt and press enter again to restart the laptop.
Method 2:
Borrow any XP disc, start it then follow the directions too the 'Repair console'. instruction on how to use the console for repairing the Boot.ini file can be found here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_rec.htm
But in short once you have the command prompt up typing the same command, FIXBOOT will result in a repair too the Boot.ini file.
Once you have it up and running again suggest you get hold of an XP boot disc or make one, I use Norton Ghost for this task, and put it away for later, handy to have in an emergency.