We use a mulch mower, too, but our grass doesn't amount to much and we don't mind leaving the leaves. Out here one can never have too many trees. We have several "volunteers" which have come up..poplars, elms, and a russian olive. They can all grow in drought conditions, so we let a few of them grow...still there will never be enough shade or two many leaves.:-)

Ahem...frogprincedarlin'...I just wanted to make sure you saw this posting of mine. Not trying to pick on you, but i hope it brings a smile.:-)