About

Just a Plant-Powered Human Who Likes Long Walks (Really Long Walks)

Welcome to Dash & Dirt! I’m Penelope, also known as Fugitive on the trail, and after a solid decade of saying ‘I should totally write a blog,’ consider this my very official debut. This is my little corner of the internet for sharing plant-powered adventures, big and small—and right now, it’s a wonderfully refreshing escape from the usual social media scroll.

At 45 years young, living in sunny Los Angeles, California, I’ve spent a fair bit of my life learning what truly nourishes both body and soul. For me, that nourishment comes through a plant-based lifestyle, and it often involves long walks – whether that’s on winding trails or through vibrant city streets.

See, I’ve had the immense privilege (and occasional delusion, especially during long, hot climbs) of completing what’s known in the hiking world as the Triple Crown of Backpacking. That’s over 7,000 miles walked, one foot in front of the other, across three of America’s longest and most challenging trails: the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. Yep, I’ve seen a lot of dirt, a lot of incredible landscapes, and survived on an astonishing number of rehydrated meals.

My time on those trails wasn’t just about collecting miles; it was about truly understanding resilience, the power of simple living, and how deeply connected we are to this beautiful planet. It also cemented my commitment to a vegan lifestyle, confirming that plants provide all the energy, protein, and grit needed for monumental feats – whether that’s summiting a mountain or just navigating a busy Tuesday. I care deeply about the environment and all its inhabitants, and this passion guides much of what I share.

So, why a blog? Well, after all those miles, I realized I had a few lessons (and a few laughs) to share. Here at Dash & Dirt, you’ll find:

Tales from the Trail: Stories from my walks – sometimes inspiring, often amusing, always humbling.
Plant-Powered Fuel: My go-to plant-based recipes and strategies, whether you’re dehydrating meals for the backcountry or just looking for quick, nutritious options for a busy day.
Honest Gear Insights: What actually held up (and what didn’t!) after thousands of miles of abuse.
Trail-Tested Wisdom: Real-world tips for a plant-based thru-hike and thriving on the trail.

This space is for anyone who loves an adventure – whether it’s out on the longest trail, or simply the daily adventure of living a vibrant, plant-based life. I’m just here to share what I’ve learned, and I’m genuinely thrilled you’ve stopped by.

Keep on trekking, y’all – Fugitive