Making up the names as i go along

Through the process of elimination I've located the train car that's is the least crowded. Almost every morning I see the same group of people. Based on their personalities I mentally name them. The names all match dogs I've owned or known at various points in my life. The exception to this is when I encounter people that resemble people from my past. There should be one word to describe this. If you think of it, please let me know.