Laurie, this is not very scientific or aesthetically pleasing as some of the other suggestions but, how about making a "helper" of sorts.
I was thinking of an old 1" key ring with a piece of cord attached.
Before putting the stand down, slip the ring over the end of the kickstand and hook the cord up near the seat.
When it's time to leave, straddle the bike and stand it up.
Pull back on the attached cord. When the stand retracts, slip the ring off of the kickstand and put it in you pocket till next time.
