Where 83 and 84 split, take 83 to the right and continue with the cherries and crackers through Ballinger and Paint Rock down to Eden. You don't have time to see the Indian pictographs at Paint Rock because you have to go into town to pay, then double back and wait for someone to open a gate. But do stop for coffee at the DQ in Eden, which has clean restrooms where you can throw away cherry pits and grape seeds, then continue south until you get to Menard. Time spent in Menard is nearly always worthwhile. Visit Ranch House Smoked Meats, just a block off 83, where 10 bucks will buy you some excellent jerky to go with those crackers.
Fresh jerky is a pleasant culinary surprise.
Wander over to look at the Historic Ditch, after admitting you didn't realize Texas had a Historic Ditch, flowing sweet and clear west to east through the heart of town. Back onto Highway 83, drop south through Kimble County. 83 becomes Interstate 10 for a few miles, but pay no attention. Keep hitting those grapes and cherries. If you happen upon a recent wreck involving an 18-wheeler, with the truck and trailer lying on its side and the driver sitting disgusted on a rear tire, stop and render aid.