My Mazda story: I currently have a 92 Miata. It is the special edition one that came with the BBS wheels and leather interior. My first Miata was a 90 Mariner Blue. I learned to drive in a 02 Protege. We currently have an 08 Mazda5 Gran Touring as a daily. I am looking to buy a Protege5.

 

Well, it seems you have grown up around Mazda and are a real Mazda family!
Welcome abaord, emart!!

Buying a p5 shouldn't be that hard, unless you want to get very specific (color, mileage, transmission, etc.) They are aging and many more are up for sale these days as people sell or trade them in.
Good Luck in your quest!!