SSI – what directory does an include file go into?

you cannot use Server Side Includes with php.

SSI’s uses perl. perl is not PHP.

Since your using something thats called up using SSI, you’re not using a WordPress plugin
Where you put something like that on your site is entirely up to you.

and while Im here, the site in your profile looks a mess.

What browser are you using?

Firefox, always.

I use Firefox too..

Thanks for your answer about the SSI.

and youve changed something since I looked earlier since it looks better _now_.

I don’t understand the reason for the gazillion <br> tags at the bottom of your front page .. but whatever. ??

Thanks… I appreciate the feedback.