well that was rather daft of me.. i figured it out.
looks like it was just a question of copying the functions.php into the proper directory.
i was using the fspring theme which is “widgets enabled.” however there was no functions.php included with the package. i didnt notice this and kept tinkering with sidebar.php
all set now!
i got the same problem going on. i suppose i’ll try to contact automattic about it, considering there are a few people with the same issues. ive tried everything on my end that i can think of.
ill letcha know if i find anything..