Find plastic bins that will fit the cabinets and store like items together. Label the container. When you need something just pull out the container - a lot faster than looking for things individually. Remember, full-timers need to carry everything so perhaps a container for your mailings with stamps, envelopes, greeting cards, paper - if you still write letters :)
Perhaps a 'grabber' could even get down some things - a long pole with a clip on the end for picking up trash, etc.
Even though it's your kitchen, that doesn't mean other items can't be stored there. How about extra packages of toilet paper, paper towels, Kleenex, beach towels, extra linens, seasonal clothes, holiday decorations, etc. The places these items came from could store some bigger less-used kitchen items/appliances/ extra cereal boxes, etc. You have to think 'creatively'. :)
Do you have a special tall pot for cooking that you don't use a lot? How about large bowls?
Good luck!