WAUWATOSA, Wis. -- While wearing crowns, ruby red slippers and their finest clothes, 17 Milwaukee County children celebrated Adoption Day with their new families on Friday.

A large sign reading “Welcome Home Forever Child” greeted 7-year-old Chase Magnuson when he arrived at his new home.

The boy lived in several foster homes before he met his new mom, Janae Magnuson, when he was 3 years old.

He still talks about his birth parents as he embraces his future with a new family.

“We tell him it's OK to love them, but at the same time, he's safe where he is now. He loves us, he loves being with us, so it's absolutely bittersweet,” she said.

Karen Steinbach, a family friend, said she’s happy for Chase because she knows his journey in life has taken a toll on him.

Chase, a soft-spoken boy, checked out his new monogrammed backpack, which all the newly adopted children receive.

He said he looks forward to Christmas, despite all the new gifts he has received -- even some from the judge.

However, parents said the joy the children bring into their lives is the greatest gift of all.