Star City Six: Tanya Godwin
The mission of Vanderford Law, PC LLO is to be a compassionate resource for comprehensive legal services in the areas of estate planning, estate settlement, business development, elder care and family law. Tanya Godwin is the Director of Business Development and Client Services Coordinator for Vanderford Law (www.vanderfordlaw.com).
How did you get started in the business? – My start with Vanderford Law proceeded fifteen years as a staff member of the Nebraska Legislature. My position was nearing its sunset and Vanderford Law’s managing attorney, Christine Vanderford, asked if I’d bring my networking and public administration experience to her firm. I accepted the challenge and thoroughly enjoy my new work ‘family.’
Tell us a little about your family. – My family is my amazing husband, Nathan, our wonderful children: Kieran, Tevin, Bevan, Maryah, Braden, and daughter-in-law Heather. My world is a busy but happy place.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – My biggest turning point was finally discovering who I am. What I wanted became clearer, and I chose to no longer expend energy on negativity. It allowed me to realize and reset my priorities.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I come from a line of stage actors, movie actors and military leaders. It makes for a very interesting Thanksgiving dinner.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – I would choose “witty” because it conveys my life’s approach, which is to bring laughter to those around me. You cannot have a bad day when you’re laughing.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – It would be “Maniac” from 1983’s Flashdance. Two lines in that song always strike me: “You work all your life for that moment in time, it could come or pass you by. It’s a push-shove world, but there’s always a chance.” Additionally, my favorite pastime is going dancing with husband and friends (minus the leotard and leg-warmers).
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – This may not be a “super power” (unless one considers H.G. Wells a superhero), but I want the ability to time travel, as an observer only. To relive the best memories, see my loved ones who have passed and revisit those first years with my children.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – I studied art and enjoy drawing and painting. I miss my evenings with charcoal and paint brushes. Admittedly, the husband and children have been a wonderful replacement.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Help is my version of memory lane. I spent my early childhood in Jackson, Mississippi and have many fond memories of the warm rains, my grandmother’s cooking, Magnolia trees and honeysuckle. I would love a chance to go back and visit.
What is your favorite movie? – My daughters and I love watching Thirteen Going on Thirty.
What is your favorite TV show? – I am a documentary junkie and I binge watch Netflix. I currently have no interest in seeking treatment for my habit.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – The Oven. My husband took me there for our first date, thus crowning it our “hopeless romantic” default favorite.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By phone at (402) 421-4646, via email at tanya@vanderfordlaw.com, or visit Vanderford Law at www.vanderfordlaw.com.