Today was a big day for the Layland family, one that Wendy and I will remember for a long time. We left St. Augustine at the early hour of 3:30 AM, embarking on a journey to take our oldest daughter, Dakota, to college. The decision to fly rather than drive meant we had quite an adventure ahead of us.

Our day started with a drive to Orlando, where we were fortunate enough to get upgraded to first class—a little blessing that made the early morning a bit more bearable. We flew nonstop to Los Angeles, a journey that was marked by both excitement and the surreal feeling of taking another step forward as parents. Once we landed, our first stop was a must for any trip to California: In-N-Out Burger. Nothing like a good meal to fuel the day ahead!

With full bellies, we navigated the crowds at Walmart, gathering all the essentials for Dakota’s new college life. The reality of what we were doing really hit as we loaded up our rented car with seven bags. Yes, seven! Moving your daughter across the country for college comes with its own unique challenges, but we were up for it.

By the time we reached Biola University, we were ready to settle her into her new home. Dakota will be living in the Hart Dorm, and while her roommate hadn’t arrived yet, we were able to set up her room, making it a place she can call home for the next year. It was important to Wendy and me that Dakota felt settled and ready for this new chapter.

We are so excited that Dakota will not only get to be a part of this amazing school but will also have the opportunity to play tennis for them. Knowing that she’ll be doing something she loves while pursuing her education is a huge blessing.

After we got her room in order, Wendy and I took a short break, getting a few more things Dakota needed while she rested and got ready for the evening. We decided to make the most of our time together and headed to Downtown Disney for a fun and memorable dinner. It was a great way to cap off the day before heading back to campus for the Torrey Honors Program kickoff.

The evening was inspiring. We listened to some incredible speakers who shared about the distinctives of the program and tied everything back to a strong biblical foundation. One talk that stood out was about how the Israelites, despite being freed, often felt like slaves. It was a powerful reminder that even when we are free, we can sometimes live as though we are still bound. The speaker connected this to the teachings of C.S. Lewis and scripture, leaving us with much to reflect on.

As the night came to a close, Biola sent the parents on their way, giving the students time to connect in their small groups. Watching Dakota head off to meet her new community, Wendy and I felt a mix of emotions—pride, excitement, and, of course, the inevitable pang of letting go.

We made our way back to the airport, where Wendy caught a redeye flight back to Virginia, and I prepared to take the redeye back to Orlando. As we headed back to our own responsibilities, Wendy and I couldn’t help but reflect on how this journey to Biola is a direct result of our decision to move to Richmond and send our kids to Veritas. While we deeply miss each other and are saddened that we don’t get to spend every day together, we realize how important that move was—evidenced by the amazing opportunity Dakota now has at Biola.

Today was not just about sending Dakota off to college; it was about recognizing the incredible journey God has led us on as a family. For those of you who are in similar stages of life—whether sending a child off to college, starting a new job, or simply navigating a new season—know that each step is part of a bigger story. We’re all on a journey, and it’s the moments like today that remind us of the faithfulness and grace that guide us along the way.