CP,

Take a look at the Black and Decker Leaf Hog blower/vac. With a 100'
heavy duty extension cord (yellow) I can get to most places in my
yard. It is a powerful blower (230 mph) and does a decent job sucking
up even wet leaves, although I usually wait until they are dry to
avoid clogs. With the garbage can connector I can create a lot of
mulch from blown piles of leaves. The small bag is good for window
wells and the like. My yard has about 30 oaks, elms, ashes, etc and
the Leaf Hog has held up well for 3 years. Up on the roof (low pitched
rambler) it does a good job clearing debris, even from the gutters (if
dry).

My neighbor has one and it makes much less noise than the gas powered
ones and it starts every time. Raking is better for the lawn, but I
hate to rake. It does take more time to set it up than it does to blow
off the patio. I should have gotten one years ago.

dss