Can't download High Sierra

When I 'Get' macOS High Sierra in App Store for my macBook Air, 13-inch, Mid 2012, current version OS X 10.8.5 (12F45), the slash circle icon just spins indefinitely, and there is no file in Applications beginning with the name Install... I also looked in the temp directory for App Store and there is no partial file in their as well.

I tried downloading El Capitan and it was also unresponsive.

I logged out of ITunes, which worked, but could not log into App Store.

(I know my login and I know my login works because I used it to register for this forum, and I also use it to go to iCloud.com and view my Notes remotely).

I also did a command F boot and cleaned my drive and repaired permissions.

Also, I deleted my App Store cache files (something.plist, etc. -->three files). Restarted a number of times.

If I do an OS X reinstall from the Internet, is there the option to do a non-destructive (of Data) reinstall? It appears there is (by not erasing or partitioning the drive) but it is not explicitly said.

Thanks,

double07robinhood