Recent Install Window 8.1 – Microsoft Live Essentials (including Writer) Will Not Install – NET Framework 3.5 Component Will Not Install

I recently reinstalled my OS to the Windows 8.1 level.  As a result, if I install Windows Essentials I am being prompted for NET Framework 3.5.  I have spent literally days researching this and tyring every method possible to get NET Framework 3.5 on my PC. No matter which method I try whether going into Control Panel (Program & Features) to active NET Framework 3.5  or trying to extract NET Framework 3.5 via the Windows 8 install disk (using the DISM command with switches), it simply will not work.  When using the DISM method, it will go to approximately 66 percent then stop and other methods via GUI simply tells me no internet connection (which I have a very good internet connection).

Please help ...  I have some legacy software that is dependent on NET Framework 3.5...  

What are my options at this point?  Again, I am Windows tech savvy and have explored all of the options.