I have to admit that you had me here with the author's notes because I have to agree with you. Harry raised by loving parents really wouldn't be the same Harry we know and love. And you worked around it brilliantly and in a way that was both believable and faithful to all the characters involved.
There was so much depth to the fic, so much rich detail. I loved Snape's relatives since it never makes sense to me that so many families in the Potter-verse are so conveniently absent. Not to mention that I wanted to nominate Severus's Aunty for best original character of the year. I loved the slow development of Snape and Harry's relationship, and I think you handled the initial misunderstanding and the shift in Harry's feelings perfectly. Nothing seemed forced or far-fetched. James's reactions throughout the story were absolutely in-line with what I would assume to be in-character for him. Actually, I found that to be true for all the characters.
What a fantastic start to a fest. Take a bow, hon. *Applauds*