Wiring these from scratch and want to stay within NEC 2008 and would like to avoid using dedicated circuit with own breaker for these. Here's what I am thinking about doing - would this be acceptable?
1. Upper/lower hall receptacles are AFCI. There are 2 receptacles upstairs and downstairs (total 4, lights on sep. circuit) and total area of both halls is less than 400 sqft.
2. Run lead off last hall receptacle to Jbox.
3. Run separate lead from Jbox to front and back porch receptacle and make the receptacle GFI, tamper resistant and in an outdoor box with cover.
4. Run power from GFI receptacle to switch for light.

I wouldn't use a J box unless you have too. You could run wiring from LINE side of GFI to switch then light, so you don't lose lighting if GFI trips.

Thanks for response. I see the advantage of running switch off line side of GFI. Why would you avoid using Jbox? Are you recommending that I run power for the other porch from the front porch switch?

I NEVER add a j box, unless absolutlely necessary. Why have a box with a blank cover.
If I do use a J box, I cover it with something, a receptacle, a smoke detector, something.
If using 1 saves time and or money use one.