Replying to Gresham,Sandy??

Can anyone tell me what these areas are like?? Looking to buy a house middle distance between Portland and Hood and keep finding some affordable houses in these areas. Are they completley suburban? Are there people in there 30's(young couples that live in these areas, do they feel like ski/snowboard communties(or do you have to move closer to Hood?)
I like the cultural aspects of Portland plus the option of being able to walk or use public transportation but I also like the idea of having a house w/ a backyard and being closer to Mt Hood. I like the idea of living in a ski/snowboard community but would probably have to work in Portland, so where is a good area to live?? Let me know if you have any opinions on this. Thanks!!!

PS-My husband & I are in our 30's so we are not looking for super party atpmoshphere but would like some connection to the world(restaurants,music) but at the same time looking for somewhere nice to raise a family.