As they were walking around Muggle London, him, Ginny, Hermione and Ron walked past a children's toy store. In the window, there was a bunch of stuffed toy owls. There were black ones, brown ones and one single white one that instantly reminded him of Hedwig.
He lingered at the window, looking at the toy owl and remembering Hedwig. Hedwig was his first birthday present - given to him on his 11th birthday when he first came to Diagon Alley. Hedwig was the only way he was able to stay in touch with friends when he really needed them. Hedwig did her bit to help Harry in the war against Voldemort by taking that curse. Hedwig was his first real friend.
Hermione, noting Harry's linger, said "You could always get another owl Harry."
"I know," replied Harry, "and I know I need one and should get one but it won't be the same."
He smiled sadly at the window and continued on his way with his girlfriend and best friends.
*Years Later*
It was his daughter's first birthday.
Obviously she didn't really know what it meant and what was happening but it did definitely not mean they were not going to celebrate it.
Harry walked into Lily's room where Ginny was picking her up out of her cot.
As soon as Lily saw her father, she immediately reached for him and Ginny passed her over.
Lily was a daddy's girl.
"Hey Lily," Harry whispered to his only daughter, "Happy birthday!"
Harry reached into his pocket for his wand and with a small flick, a white stuffed toy owl appeared. He passed it to his daughter with a smile on his face.
"Hedwig," he whispered to her.