I have a 96 Accord EX (automatic) with 88k miles that has recently
started having shifting problems when cold. I believe what it is doing
is called "flaring". It will rev (as if in neutral) when shifting from
2nd to 3rd, then engage. It doesn't seem to do it when shifting
between other gears and only when upshifting. After driving for 5-10
miles the problem seems to be gone. I have had the fluid changed, but
htere was no improvement. There was no evidence of excessive particles
on the plug, and the fluid was relatively clean.

Anyone got any ideas what might be going on here?