The problem I have with CVS (and Walgreens) is the limits they place on the numbers of items I can buy. I have one store that cooperates completely with me and I merely have to order stuff and they hold it for me in the backroom. For example, from this store I ordered 200 bottles of "stuff" early last week. On Saturday, 120 bottles arrived and I picked them up. Yesterday the remaining 80 bottles arrived and I also picked them up. Total retail (on sale) value was $600 plus tax. Me? I got them all for less than $8 including tax.
Around here, PJ, all of the stores pose limits. (Central Indiana).
Because I am only shopping for myself (husband is working overseas), I am content with what I can get for free or nearly so.
A lot of what I eat is non-coupon, fresh fruits, veggies, meats, so I mostly concentrate on toiletries and cleaning supplies.
I am fascinated with your stories, however, and am always glad to see a true success in couponing!