We use the tarp method and drag the tarp over to the hill on the backside of our yard. Amazingly those humongous leaf piles turn into almost nothing after a year. Your suggestions about how to use the leaves has me thinking to put a leaf mulcher on my Christmas wish list.
I feel the same way about a small wood chipper for the never-ending fallen branches around here. Electric. That would be a DREAM gift! :)
It’s funny, the things Gardeners want. :)