how do i find my iphone if i don't have mobile me or the find my iphone app

Call it and hope someone answers?

Try ask Apple to provide the MobileMe service for free. Just like HTC Sense!

The mobileMe service was rumoured going to be free soon. However, the trackmyiphone part of the MobileMe is Free.

If I read the OP correctly, he/she lost their IP and didn't bother to install the trackmyphone installation before it happened.

IF that happened, the only way the phone is going to be returned to to call the number and hope the finder will answer the phone and then return it.

Also, to note for reference, installing the Find iPhone app does not do anything except locate OTHER iPhones that have the Find My iPhone setup.

The Find iPhone process is a setup, not an installation.