I get by with a little help from my friends

I think this has been the hardest post I've ever had to write. Not because I don't want to or don't have anything to say, but because my heart is overflowing and the words just get all jumbled up. So I'll start with the most simple thing first.

thank you, from the bottom of my angel heart. I have been humbled and overwhelmed by your generosity and friendship. I cherish your support and even your kind-hearted kidding (driver, I don't know who you are, I don't know where you live, but I will find you. And then I'll make you ride shotgun with me. :-) I'm really a good driver.) I plan to use the funds you've so generously donated to replace my laptop (or get it fixed) and upgrade my handgun selection. Any remaining will go in my Escape Fund.

Donavan, thank you for ignoring my protestations and doing what you wanted to do. 
Wirecutter, thank you for leading the charge with your very large and manly.....readership. 
Irish, thank you for posting the link and adding your readers.
Everyone who contributed, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you....

I will admit, I had difficulty accepting a good friend's offer to set this up for me. I'm the person who rides to the rescue, not the person who needs saving. Part of it is good old Mom thinking; everyone else's needs come first, and if there's anything left over, then surely someone needs some more. And part is just plain feelings of unworthiness. I'm not big enough or important enough to deserve y'all's generosity. I was actually a little embarrassed to ask until he reminded me I wasn't asking, he was. And another friend sat me down and chewed me out. I think her words were, "you do so much for others, but you never let anyone feel good about doing something for you, and well, that's pretty selfish. I love you, but it's selfish." She's always been brutally honest with me which is why we've been friends for four decades.

So, I'm cracking that door open, I'm laying down my sthields, and I'm graciously and gratefully accepting your gifts. Just know that while the funds are wonderful, it's your friendship I value above all else.

hugs,

Angel

ps, can someone please figure out why, when I cut and paste, it fucks up my background? how do I fix it?