My First RESTful API: A Beginner's Journey

On October 20, 2025, I built my first RESTful API with Node.js and Express. Here's my journey!

The Task

Create a GET /me endpoint with:

• Profile: [e-mail], Victor Osaikhuiwuomwan, Node.js/Express
• Dynamic UTC timestamp
• Random cat fact from https://catfact.ninja/fact

My Process

1. Setup: Installed Node.js, VS Code, and ran npm init -y.
2. Coding: Built an Express server with Axios for cat facts.
3. Debugging: Fixed SyntaxError: Unexpected token '(' and Git branch mismatch (master vs main).
4. Testing: Tested with curl http://localhost:3000/me.
5. GitHub: Added .gitignore, README.md, and pushed to main branch.
6. Deployment: Deployed on Railway.
7. Documentation: Fixed missing README.md issue and wrote this post.

Challenges and Lessons

• Challenge: Git branch mismatch (master vs main).
• Lesson: Align local and remote branches with git branch -m.
• Challenge: Missing README.md in GitHub.
• Lesson: Verify commits and pushes to the correct branch.

Try It Out!

• Live Demo: profile-api-production-94d0.up.railway.app
• GitHub Repo: https://github.com//profile-api/victorion0

Screenshots

What’s Next?

I want to explore databases or more endpoints. Tips?

Comments

[lucas-brdt268]

Hello. Wonderful article!
I think you are a funny developer. I want to keep to touch with you continuously.

This is my whatsapp.
[phone]

Have a good day.

[Victor Osaikhuiwuomwan]

Hi, thank you for the kind words! I’m glad you enjoyed the article.
I’m not able to connect via WhatsApp, but you’re welcome to reach out here or follow my work on the blog.
Have a great day!