Mymosa is correct on the aspect of creating any character of any Faction on a Normal server, However you will only be able to communicate by emotes if logged on as different faction characters, and can not share anything else (just stating the obvious I know). Also all your characters of the same faction only can share items through mail.
As to the Horde V Alliance ...it looks like Mymosa got the Veto on this (looking at the final votes) so Alliance is the most likely for the Roses.
As to the PVE V PVP also trends lean towards the PVE server, now it's just a question of what named server we choose, and judgeing from the USA there will be alot to choose from, and whether we go High/Medium or Low population, and designing a tabard for the Roses...So much to do! and So long to make all the Gold needed to complete it... LOL ...You'll never be rich in WOW, and to get a mount takes 40G, but boy/girl will you look cool when you have one!
O by the way, just for info...and not to gloat and say "I told you so!" but PC GAMER have reviewed WOW at 94%...
Here's to spending excellent time with all of you again, and have a great Christmas!
Duvand