Can't Boot Up OS (Windows 8.1) after forced update! HELP!

My computer was fine prior to update.  I had Windows 8.1.  There was an update for 8.1 and I kept delaying it "LATER".  One day as I was on my laptop, it prompted me that it will install the new update in approx. 5 minutes.  That was fine with me as I kept procrastinating.  During the install, the computer reboots and then went into "Automatic repair Mode".  (Please note the computer was plugged in).  After the Automatic Repair Mode, it then prompts me the option to "Advance Tools."  No matter what I chose (booting into safe mode, restore, ect), it tells me that I need an admin account in order to proceed.  I am the only user with full privileges, yet my user info is not listed.  No matter what I choose or click, I have no options to restore or use any tools.  

I was thinking it was something to do with the boot path, but wasn't certain.  I did take out the hard drive and used a SATA to USB cable to save at least my most important files.  I was hoping to get everything up and running (bootable) without needing to do a full OS reinstall as I hate needing to find and go through the process of installing all my apps.  I hardly have time to call up support from DELL as I leave for work early and get home late.  I guess I'm being optimistic that there is a simple solution (whether it is using the SATA/USB cable to restore a file, or something even easier). 

I also tried using the DELL link to request the Backup and Recovery CD, however, I get the following message: "An automated media dispatch is not currently available. Please contact technical support for help with replacement media.  Any suggestions as to what to do?

DELL INSPIRON 17 (7737)
Windows 8.1 (tried installing .1 update)

***Any other information, please let me know**