At least among my ancestors, Bulie is a family name of Norwegians who came to Amrerica in 1872. I do not think the name is foreshortened name but refers to a "farm" name.
See:
http://www.norwayheritage.com/norwegian-names.htm#surnameIf your cousin is in the 1900 US Census of Bristol Township, Worth County Iowa, we are probably related.
Duane