Leaf mold is the best stuff for soil amendments and nutrients. Sounds like your peonies and bulbs are going to be very happy in your garden, Joanna.
I have to say my area has experienced warmer Oct and Nov. for the last 3 years. I remember it used to be blustery cold in Nov and frost usually came in mid Oct. I don't know whether it is due to global warming or solar activity or maybe just weather cycles but I love it. I would not mind having mild weather into Dec. If winter can be shortened down to 2 months, that will be long enough.
Mary, that is strange indeed that your plants have not suffered from winter heaving. Do you have frequent freeze and thaw cycles?
