@Christy_Roach
Perfect!
So, you want to change the (unlock first) the DisplayMode of the DataCard that has the Date column you are talking about in it. Then set the DisplayMode to Disable
This is based on the assumption that the Edit form is different than the new entry form.
IF it is not...then, change your DisplayMode property to If(yourFormName.Mode=New, Edit, Disable)
This will allow entry when it is a new form and disabled when it is not.
BUT...If I read everything you have posted, it seems you never want this field to be edited. If a New form is created, then it will have Today() in it - no editing allowed.
If that is correct, then jsut stick with the Disable in the DisplayMode
If you are having issues with the date not being what you expect in it, then change the Default property of your DataCard to the following:
If(yourFormName.Mode = New, Today(), ThisItem.yourDataColumnName)
I hope this is clear and helpful.