Very nice characterization, in-character dialog, great Laura-thoughts. I'll rate it when I have points again.
My only critique, and it's a niggly one, is that the "Take it from me, Mrs Brittas, they're not," is several paragraphs after what it's referring back to, and it confused me for a moment. I'd be less confused if it were "Take it from me, Mrs Brittas, they're not worth it." As I said, niggly. Great story.