So, I've asked a couple of friends, but I figure you'd all be a better group to poll.
I have an 04 Blazer 2 x 4, and I've noticed that first thing in the morning, I. E. when everything is cold, my shifts from 1st to 2nd are kinda stiff, but once it warms up they get softer. If I drive her like a 4 banger she shifts gently, but if I kind of get on it she shifts a little harder. No bang, or noises, just shifts pretty stiff. I've heard its just what these trannies do, is this true?

 

probaly just cold tranny fluid makin a more firm shift and plus when your engine is cold you have a little more power cause your computer is runnin open loop mode till it gets to 190degrees this could also make the shift feel firm because of increased torque and power