Wonderful Journey
I served in Iraq, Enduring Freedom, Kosovo and Desert Storm and found reading it both calming and enjoyable. This is a very unique road trip journal. The cross-country conveyance alone (a vintage tractor with a top speed around 15mph) sets this apart from most other modern books of its type. Another distinguishing factor is the mission, goal and purpose of the trip---to generate awareness and support for PTSD sufferers and their loved ones. The book taught me that there's much to be said about taking it slow, and how that allows you to experience so much more of the vast unknowns that exist between cities. At times, his trip seemed like a test---mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually, particularly in the mountains, deserts, and other challenging areas. But there were chance encounters with folks along the way---often seemingly providential meetings---that kept him and his rig going. Anyone experienced with PTSD, firsthand or otherwise, will appreciate the stories shared by those whom he met along the way---some happy, some sad, most unforgettable. However, the rest of the overall tale is one of faith, charity, love and support as many along the way reached out to the author, sharing their time and resources with him and his mission of hope and healing. The story of this odyssey provided a sense of inspiration and pride---in the author, his support team, my fellow veterans and first responders, and in the country that cares for and stands behind them.

One Mile At A Time
Flipping open the cover of C. Ivan Stoltzfus’ book, “The Dream Continues”, I slipped into the cab of Johnabilt, a 1948 John Deere A tractor, settled in next to Teddy and Puppy, surveyed the photos of veterans and first responders assembled before me, acknowledged Rooster, Smiley, RV, and began my journey with Ivan and his crew from Pennsylvania to Florida.

I was traveling vicariously, driven by the power of the written word, reveling in the peaceful journey through VA, NC and SC, GA and FL, to Ivan’s winter home in Sarasota, thirty-five miles from where I grew up.

A grand trip it was, seeing country I knew through Ivan’s eyes. It felt like going home. That initial trip left me wanting more, more of Ivan’s faith, his commitment, his belief in the mission, our country and his God.

In February of 2017, we set out again. It was a road trip done different, taking all the back roads across the country, stopping to talk to everyone who wanted to know what the mission was all about, all the while surrounded by Ivan’s serene commitment to his cause.

Is “The Dream Continues” a great work of literature? Susceptible as I may be to auctioneer hyperbole, my answer is no. That said Ivan’s journal of his voyage, edited by the discerning hand of Carol Quaintance, is an inspiring and pleasant read. Of greater importance in my mind is the question; is his mission a great work of humanity? In my opinion, the answer to that is a resounding yes!

Buy it. Read it. I believe you’ll agree.