Stonecrops are a favorite for those dry, seldom watered areas of the garden, but newly planted sedums need regular watering until they get established, and that can sometimes take up to six months.  As the common name implies, stonecrops/sedums grow best in gravelly, well-draining soil, and if yours is typical of the Portland metro area, you'll want to amend the heck out of that heavy clay. Sedums such as 'Limelight' can handle our cold winters, but they don't like soggy feet, and their roots could rot out in dense, compacted soil. Planting your succulents in container planters or hanging baskets may save your back and they look spectacular when combined with several varieties. 'Limelight' is allegedly evergreen, but it can get a bit seedy looking in the winter. Trim it back if needed in late winter, and its bright green rosettes will come back in all their glory once the weather warms up.