Blot pork dry with a paper towel.

Heat 1 Tbsp. of the oil in a large saute pan over medium high heat. When oil is hot (not smoking) add ½ of the pork. Saute until pork is golden brown, turn and saute until pork is cooked through - about 7 minutes. Remove from pan to a plate and tent with foil. Add another Tbsp. of oil and saute the remaining pork. When cooked, remove pork from the pan and set aside. Add the remaining Tbsp. of oil and heat over medium high heat. Add the parnips, apples and shallots. Cook until the apples and parsnips are tender - if the shallots are getting too brown, lower the heat to medium. Add the sherry and cook, stirring up the browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Add the honey and the butter and stir. Season with salt and white pepper. Divide the pork among 4 plates. Spoon the sauce over the pork and garnish with the almonds, if using, and the fresh thyme.