Weird outlet/switch connection

This one is driving me crazy - I've got 2 overhead lights and 2 outlets on a switch, and I don't want the outlets switched anymore. Problem is, the switched line goes to the outlets *first*, then to the overhead lights (I'd love to know who thought that was a good idea). Naturally, the walls and ceiling are nicely sealed up.

Any suggestions on how to do this without running new wires (which I'm just about ready to do, if I have to)? I have a feeling this is the best way to handle it, but I just wanted a sanity check first.

Ken

 

IF the "feed-out" from the switch is a 2-wire cable with the switch connected to the Black wire of this cable, and the path of this 2-wire cable from the switch box is ----- switch--receptacle #1-----receptacle #2------fixture #1 -----fixture #2----, then you have the option of locating a switch for controlling the fixtures adjacent to receptacle #2.You simply need a 2-wire switch-loop cable between the outlet box of receptacle #2 and the new switch-box. With "finess" it's possible to accomplish this W/O marring the wall-finish.-Also, you can connect a dimmer.----Good Luck!!!!