What's in a Name

What’s in a Name: Friendships, and Future Plans

A journey through memories, maintenance, and the ever-evolving Alfa life

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Introduction

Every name carries a story, and every story leaves a mark. In this edition of “What’s in a Name,” we reflect on friendships forged in rally lots, projects finished under the Arizona sun, and plans for what comes next. But first, a little cleanup—literally and figuratively.

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Finishing the Job: Venable’s Mini-Split & More

We’ve nearly wrapped up the installation of Venable’s Solar/Grid-Tied Mini-Split. Jeff still has a bit of cleanup to do (the easy part), and a few cables will need trimming later. I'll share some photos near the end of this post.

Along the way, Susan and Linda have been making the most of the season—exploring nearby towns, diving into thrift markets, and laughing all the while. The only thing missing? Garage and yard sales—usually a staple of Yuma life.

And speaking of teamwork…

Jeff and I tackled another project: replacing his city water fill valve. He and Zid hadn’t been able to get the hose off, but with a bit of effort and elbow grease, we had the old one out and a new one installed in just 15 minutes. Other than those two items, we made quick work of the remaining maintenance tasks.

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Back to Where It Began: PIR 2012

To understand this next name, we have to go back to 2012, to a GoodSam Rally at the PIR race grounds in Phoenix. Susan and I were preparing for retirement and figured it was time to get our feet wet in the RV world. We arrived in our 2003 Alfa SeeYa, ready to volunteer and explore.

I worked parking and security; Susan helped with incoming rigs. That’s when we saw it—a parade of Alfas, rolling in together. It was a sight to remember. I told Susan, we have to go meet those people. And meet them we did.

That was our first encounter with the Alfa Roadrunners.

We were welcomed instantly—pulled in by one especially bold and unforgettable woman.

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The Name is… Lynch

Yes, the name that inspired all of this? It’s Lynch.

If you smiled reading that, you already know. Lorraine and Mike didn’t ease you into friendship— Lorraine, she dropped anchor, handed you an application, and told you where to sign.

Before we had a proper hello, she had already pressed a $10 Roadrunner application into Susan’s hand. That’s just who she was—passionate, no-nonsense, and incredibly warm. Bootsie made sure we weren’t just “RVers,” but Roadrunners—part of a family we didn’t know we needed.

She embodied what this life is all about: community, laughter, and the kind of stories you tell around campfires and rallies for years to come.

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Mike, Lorraine & Our Road Ahead

Not far behind in shaping our Alfa life were Mike and Lorraine.

It was Mike who “encouraged” me to become an officer in the Roadrunners. Lorraine sealed the deal by ensuring Susan was fully on board. Their support (and persistence!) played a huge role in our journey.

Even as they transitioned from motorhome to camper to home life, from Casa Grande to Pinetop to Florence, Arizona—they’ve remained close friends and part of our circle.

They’ve also been with us as we start our own transition—from our Yuma lot to Plan B: a Park Model in Yuma, for when we slow down on the road.

Eventually, we’ll shift into Plan C: our 1973 log cabin tucked in the High Country of Show Low, AZ. A quieter season, but still filled with memories waiting to be made.

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In Closing

This journey—this life—isn’t measured in miles, rigs, or upgrades. It’s measured in names like Lynch's, friendships like Mike and Lorraine’s, and all the moments in between.

From fixes and fun to future plans, this chapter is one more reminder that RV life isn’t just about where you go—it’s about who you meet along the way.

Here to Mike & Lorraine, you will always be a part of our life and in our hearts and prayers. We know the road ahead will be rough, with many decision to be made. 

Remember you will Always,  be a big part of our life and where the road map in our travels.

   

Final Phase with the Venable's

Safe Travels and Journeys

Susan, Tilly, Dakota and me

DaGirls Rv & Gus Da Bus