There are changes you could make but if it's not time for new counters then hold off on any changes for now. Not even new pulls.

In the future you could enclose the fridge so it looks more built-in. Plus add storage on the side and above.

I love the fridge idea! We are DEF going to be doing new counters at some point in the not so distant future. We are first time home buyers and went from a tiny 2 bedroom apartment to this 4 bedroom tri-level with a basement! We have a lot of furniture to buy. :) Thank you!

Hope I didn't overwhelm you! I have done all these changes in my own kitchen.

One thing you could do right now is take down the valance over the sink and replace it with a more tailored roman shade.

Painting the cabinets white will make the kitchen look more modern and will brighten up the space.

A farmhouse sink or an undermount sink would be great.

Thank you! That is the previous owners. The photo is from when we went to see the house before we bought it. We haven't moved it yet, so that DEF will not be there! Thank you!

I think leelee made excellent suggestions. Painting the cabinets and adding new hardware will help make a dramatic difference. You might want to consider adding cabinets to the ceiling or completely redoing your upper cabinets to have them up to the ceiling.

You've gotten some great advice! There are lots of options for cabinet hardware, and it's a relatively easy way to change the look of the room - especially if you think it will be a while before you can do a complete remodel.

I would move the fridge next to the cabinets and if you can, frame it in so it's integrated with the cabinets.

We can draw it out for you in 3d and send it back to you in 3D I have awesome Kitchen designers that can work miracles with space. Simonsondesignstudios.com

Painting the oak is a real chore that probably should not be taken on unless you are a patient and experienced DIY person or are willing to hire a professional painter. If you decide not to paint and the cabinets are in good condition, new hardware, countertops, sink and backsplash would freshen it up a great deal. Also consider a new hood. Whether you paint or not, the Kohler Whitehaven "short apron" style farmhouse sink can be installed on a standard sink base cabinet. It does not require a special cabinet. I made similar changes in my oak kitchen.

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/57579129/thumbs/my-pics-work-in-progress

I would remove the backsplash, it was the wrong choice and is only on one wall. The previous owners didn't carry it all the way around the kitchen .Then just paint the walls. The backsplash and floor don't go together in style as well as color.
I would wait for major changes until you can do it well (financially ) since you say there are many purchases to make.
Enjoy your new home.

If you have a budget for a light remodel, put the refrigerator against the existing cabinets. Then have a new cabinet made above it, and make a side panel/broom closet on the right of the frig. Then have the whole kitchen painted a green/gray shade. We can provide some color numbers if you're interested.