[strat61caster]

I assume by 'park' you mean shut the car off?

Also to be clear, what exactly are you seeing on the dipstick? To me the only accurate thing about the dipstick is whether or not there is oil in the holes. To me if there is oil in the bottom hole and the stick is coated both sides above the bottom when warm it is good. Some will argue that the top hole should hold oil in it as well, to me that is Maximum, being slightly above that hole will not cause any harm.

Based on your post we are assuming that both holes are dry after inserting the dipstick fully into the hole and pulling it out again, you should see the black rubber ring around the yellow handle disappear into the tube and hear a loud click as it goes into place. Is this correct?