I like the motion sensor idea a lot! I'll have to run it by the Mr.
We're not going to rewire because we have knob and tube, and we don't plan on living there long enough to justify the cost. Sadly the people before us re-did the drywall, and didn't choose to rewire, so we're stuck for now, but have learned a lesson! Also its a 2 story, so ceiling access on the main floor is none. I appreciate all the suggestions and agree the long-term solution IS to rewire. It just doesn't make sense for us in this house.