ultramalchupapi/1st-solo-MERN-project ? reverse-engineered prompt

Build me a simple full stack MERN app with a clean frontend and a backend that talks to a database.

I want something like a basic app where a user can create, view, edit, and delete items, with the data saved properly so it still works after refresh. Make the frontend feel polished and easy to use, and make the backend handle the API, data storage, and any needed validation. If you need to look up current docs online for the best setup, go ahead.

Please set it up so it runs smoothly from both the frontend and backend folders, and make sure the app actually works end to end. Keep the code organized and easy to understand, and include whatever small touches are needed so it feels like a real project instead of a demo.