If you've got major plans in the future I think I would just live with it. I like the kitchen the way it is but as you live with it you'll find things you like and things you want to change. Write them down for when you take down that wall (if you ever do).

The outlets just need to be covered with black (or grey if you can find it) instead of white outlet covers. Even mirror might work because they'll pick up the black of the counter. I guess that would still leave the actual plug in white. Surely they have those in different colors. When you do your remodel you can have stip outlets put in under the counter so they aren't right out in the open but I don't think a kitchen can have to many power plug-ins.

You can paint the tiles as well as the cabinets. I love the look when the lower cabinets are paintet ether dark grey/brow or black and the upper cabinets are paintet white. Add some new gribs, curtains and maybe change the cabinets on the small wall with some glass cabinets or shelves.

Opening up to the family room would not be nessesery in my opinion.

It is a very workable kitchen and with paint and fabric can look quite nice. I would invest very little into the space with plans for such a major overhaul in the near future. You have plenty of light, so I would pick out a darker wall color so there isn't such a drastic difference between the back splash and the wall. Hang some roman shades and be done. I would keep a notebook in the kitchen to write down all your ideas when they hit.

Thanks everyone for your comments. I will consider all of your suggestions. Appreciate it.