[12Ounce]

I suspect it is the Positive-Traction (or whatever Ford calls it) system on the front end drive system. Do you get a light announcement on the instrument cluster when this happens?

One thing that can cause "confusion" in this system when you are in the snow or slush... is if one front wheel brake caliper is dragging a bit. If you do your own work, I would suggest you open up the front calipers (may be time to replace pads anyway) and thoroughly grease the pins (with dust boots) that the caliper piston assembly slides on. While you are there, thoroughly grease the metal clips at the ends of the pads.
I like NAPA/Permatex synthetic caliper lube ... part #765-2429.