Actually, I did notice that the taxes were higher; it's my first Sephora purchase where there were duties. Honestly, couldn't care less. It's a total splurge and a couple of extra bucks is no big deal. I'd care if duties were typically applied, but they aren't. It probably has something to do with the country of origin of the product.
I'm not sure that it will ever get to Shoppers; they never got the Crazy Pearls and I checked multiple times (same as in store Sephora). I was tempted by those as well but didn't want to pull the trigger without making sure they weren't too pink or sparkly for me so I never ordered them. Maybe I just don't deal with Shoppers enough, but I'm not remotely impressed with Optimum points. My card is so old that the plastic sheer cover has come off and it's burgundy, and I've gotten less than $30 out of them over what must be pushing 20 years.
I think it's likely that I'll hit Rouge again with Sephora (without even trying). My daughter bought herself the Chocolate Bar palette over the weekend and with the bronzer I must be over $600 and it's only April. With Christmas shopping/holiday palettes, I'd be surprised if I didn't hit $1000. The wildcard for me is skincare; I'm switching over to Paula's Choice for many items and if my two eldest also are impressed with her products, I won't get anywhere near Rouge after this year. I like Sephora's samples, much greater product range and free shipping.