Such neat little stitching ! What count is the aida ? How many strands did you use ? So lovely finish !
The hanging rod is an excellent idea. For the countdown pieces, fraying the edges is a good idea, not too much, maybe just 2 rows. Thereafter, perhaps you want to consider stitching the piece to the square ? Just simple backstitching or running stitch in soft colour so that it does not distract.
chekccard